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What a awesome update....Im so happy here all the wonderful news...what a blessing.I could feel your enthusiasm just bubbling over. you so needed that. all my love.
c.
- Monday, October 24, 2005 7:12 AM CDT

It let me sign in and fix the text and background, Lisa. must be your computer. So let me know if you want some more help with editing or updating until your computer is fixed.
Chris Hipsher
- Friday, October 21, 2005 9:19 AM CDT

Hey Max!
I hope that consult went ok. Just stopping in to say hi!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears~
Ones Who Care

~Simply Joanne~

Joanne <joanne173@gmail.com>
Singapore, Singapore - Friday, October 14, 2005 9:13 AM CDT

Twinkies and Root Beer

A little boy wanted to meet God. He knew it was a long trip to where God lived, so he packed his suitcase with Twinkies and a six-pack of Root Beer and he started his journey.

When he had gone about three blocks, he met an elderly man. The man was sitting in the park just feeding some pigeons.

The boy sat down next to him and opened his suitcase. He was about to take a drink from his root beer when he noticed that the man looked hungry, so he offered him a Twinkie.

The man gratefully accepted it and smiled at boy. His smile was so pleasant that the boy wanted to see it again, so he offered him a root beer.

Again, the man smiled at him. The boy was delighted! They sat there all afternoon eating and smiling, but they never said a word.

As it grew dark, the boy realized how tired he was and he got up to leave, but before he had gone more than a few steps, he turned around, ran back to the man, and gave him a hug. The man gave him his biggest smile ever.

When the boy opened the door to his own house a short time later, his mother was surprised by the look of joy on his face. She asked him, "What did you do today that made you so happy?

"He replied, "I had lunch with God." But before his mother could respond, he added, "You know what? God's got the most beautiful smile I've ever seen!"

Meanwhile, the elderly man, also radiant with joy, returned to his home. His son was stunned by the look of peace on his face and he asked," Dad, what did you do today that made you so happy?"

He replied, "I ate Twinkies in the park with God." However, before his son responded, he added," You know, he's much younger than I expected."

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. People come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Embrace all equally!

~author unknown~

Have lunch with God!

And .......Thanks for touching my life!

=)
- Wednesday, October 5, 2005 6:52 AM CDT

I love the picture of all of you. Your entry on the 29th made me cry.
Thinking of all of you
Tammy J. <joshjames@aol.com>
- Tuesday, October 4, 2005 2:15 PM CDT

The pictures made me think of the darling little boy that would sort of sneak up to my purse whenever I came to his house, to look for the lipstick ("dipstick") so he could be beautiful! He was and is beautiful and he is BIGGER like he wanted to be! I Love you so much Maxwell!
Joanne <grqammacongo@aol.com>
- Tuesday, October 4, 2005 10:16 AM CDT

Those Pictures bring back such beautiful memories.
Thank you so much for that.
I have been thinking so much about you.
I have been missing you all.
Love to you all
C.
- Friday, September 30, 2005 6:22 AM CDT

CRYING BEFORE BREAKFAST ABOUT SUCH BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS !

JOANNE <GRAMMACONGO@AOL.COM>
- Thursday, September 29, 2005 3:06 PM CDT

Awesome from Page Lis....
You are all in my thoughts today

Love to you all
C.
- Thursday, September 29, 2005 1:45 PM CDT

Just stopping by to say I'm thinking of all of you today.
Ann O'Brien <Oducks@msn.com>
Blaine, MN - Thursday, September 29, 2005 8:50 AM CDT

Hi, just me Max's mom seeing if I can sign the guestbook cuz Joanne said she was having trouble. If anyone else is having trouble, please email me and let me know. Then I can write and let caringbridge know and they can help me figure out why. Thanks Lisa
Lisa <gosewischj@aol.com>
- Tuesday, September 27, 2005 8:09 AM CDT

I just want you to know that you are in my thoughts daily. I pray for you to have extra comforting from God. also your family. love to you all.
c.
- Saturday, September 24, 2005 11:04 AM CDT

www.postpals.co.uk

Liz Cook - Postpals
Brighton, England, UK - Saturday, September 3, 2005 3:34 PM CDT

Jim, Lisa, Spencer, and Max, Great vacation pictures! It was good to see 3 of you last weekend. It had been awhile since we saw Max. He gets taller all the time! Missed you Jim. Spencer, Are you ready for another school year? Grandpa has been OK this week, so life has been pretty uneventful. At this point, I always say "uneventful is a good thing" because eventful usually means a health situation with Grandpa. As always, thank you for the updates. We love you all.
Grandma Karen
- Saturday, September 3, 2005 7:39 AM CDT

FAITH...

Faith is the belief that God is real and that God is good. It is a choice to believe that the one who made it all, hasn't left it all and that he still sends light into the shadows and responds to gestures of faith....

Faith is the belief that God will do what is right.

God says that the more hopeless your circumstances, the more likely your salvation. The greater your cares, the more genuine your prayers. The darker the room, the greater the need for light.

God's help is near and always available, but it is only given to those who seek it.

"Max Lucado - He still Moves Stones"

We have troubles all around us, but we are NOT defeated. We do not know what to do, but we do not give up the hope of the living. We are persecuted, but God does not leave us. We are hurt sometimes, but we are not destroyed... So we do not give up. Our physical body is becoming older and weaker, but our spirit inside us is made new every day. We have small troubles for awhile now, but they are helping us gain an eternal glory that is much greater than the troubles. We set our eyes not on what we see, but on what we cannot see... 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, 16-18

The ETERNAL God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. Deuteronomy 33:27

.
- Monday, August 29, 2005 11:47 PM CDT

Max you go buddy... Your mom and dad are awesome and love you so much...Your in my prayers and I hope each update bring more miacles for you!! God bless you buddy...Your in our prayers... Lisa thank you again, your an awesome friend...Love and hugs...Peggy
Peggy Hostetler <Angelindiskyes@aol.com>
Simi Valley, Ca USA - Thursday, August 25, 2005 0:17 AM CDT

Lisa,

I am so thankful for the day you were born and the events that brought you into our lives and our family! Happy Birthday dear Lisa, Happy Birthday to you!

Love,
Joanne
Joanne
- Wednesday, August 24, 2005 9:32 AM CDT

Hey Max!
How cool is that you are being abkle to swallow again!! I have to say you never cease to amaze me.
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, August 24, 2005 9:15 AM CDT

Happy Birthday Lisa!
Julie Opheim <bohunkbbq@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, August 24, 2005 5:02 AM CDT

I just love all these pictures and all of you!
Gramma

Joanne <grammacongo@aol.cojm>
- Thursday, August 11, 2005 8:28 PM CDT

Lisa,
My thoughts of Max and your family continue. I sure do hope Max passes that swallow study. I also hope he can get out there and enjoy some horseback riding very soon. Thanks for allowing me...and others.. into your life...you are such an amazing and beautiful mom.
Love to you.

- Tuesday, August 9, 2005 8:33 PM CDT

Love Viks
viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Monday, August 8, 2005 9:25 AM CDT

Oh I forgot... There's a webpage for PACER...

www.pacer.org
Julie Opheim <bohunkbbq@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, August 3, 2005 3:49 PM CDT

Hi Lisa!

I was thinking about you. and Max ...

Have you ever heard of the PACER center? it's the Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights. (Located in Bloomington)

I have volunteered the last couple years in an IBM activity/camp there for middle school age girls to encourage them to get/stay interested in technology, math and science. All the girls that come to our class have a disability of sorts.

I don't know where Max's schooling is, but hopefully this will be another resource for you for information, help, etc etc.

Just a thought.

And I think Max got your long legs!!

Sounds like your summer, while hot, is filled with activities, adventure and family. Can't beat that combination!

Love ya!
Julie
Julie Opheim <bohunkbbq@hotmail.com>
Minnetonka, MN - Wednesday, August 3, 2005 3:48 PM CDT

Hey Max you look so cool in sunglases! A rainbow of happinness your way
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Tuesday, July 19, 2005 11:51 AM CDT

love to all-we are thinking af all of you.
uncle jim <jimhynes@gmail.com>
- Thursday, July 14, 2005 9:40 AM CDT

Mmmmm-----I wonder who Max inherited long legs from? Both of you are beautiful!

Joanne
- Thursday, July 14, 2005 8:49 AM CDT

Dear Lisa,
I am sending love and prayers your way. I am praying for you to have an incredible weekend. "I've been scraping little shavings off my ration of light and I formed it into a ball, and each time I pack a bit more onto it...I make a bowl of my hands and I scoop it from its secret cache under a loose board in the floor and I blow across it and I send it to you against those moments when the darkness blows under your door". Some days are so difficult...then there are those moments when life just seems wonderful! I am praying for you to have a weekend full of those moments!

Thinking of you after a beautiful summer morning...hoping for a shower of blessings for you and your family!

- Saturday, July 9, 2005 5:47 PM CDT

Jim, Lisa, Spencer, and Max, It's been several weeks again since I've checked in. Thank you for being so faithful in updating this. One of two things happen when I read your updates or the guest book entries: 1) I get uplifted, or 2) I feel that you need uplifting and will immediately say a prayer. This is always so mutually beneficial! Hope you have a good hot summer weekend. I love you all.
Grandma Karen
- Saturday, July 9, 2005 8:41 AM CDT

Lisa - ask anytime and we'll certainly pray for whatever it is you need! Here's hoping those red eyes get better quickly. Take care of yourself, Lisa......
Love, Patti.
Patti Barth <barthpl2002@yahoo.com>
Howard Lake, MN - Thursday, July 7, 2005 3:13 PM CDT

Lisa,

When reading your update, I think you must be the blind horse today (that story was so good!). Dear one, I want to ring the bell for you. You are right when you say you expect too much of yourself. Pare down your expectations to bare necessities in order to keep your self intact. And you told me your laundry pile was under control! That's one necessity covered (and your family will be too---in clean clothes). You've had coffee and conversation with your in house adult, Max's hair is cut, Spencer is played with and you have plans for the vacation week ahead! Looks to me like you can be assured bases are covered enough for the moment. Enjoy all you have done and do every day. There is alot that can wait --(I know about that for certain, some stuff is still waiting from when my kids were growing up, ask my kids if they remember what didn't get done and did it make a difference or not). Another day I'll be the blind horse and you can wear the bell (you do that for me too you know!). And always remember I love you and support you in every minute of your life!

Joanne
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Saturday, June 25, 2005 1:41 PM CDT

Horse-Sense

Just up the road from my home is a field,

with two horses in it.

From a distance, each looks like every other horse.

But if one stops the car, or is walking by,

one will notice something

quite amazing.

Looking into the eyes of one horse

will disclose that he is blind.

His owner has chosen not to have him put down,

but has made a good home for him.

This alone is amazing.

Listening, one will hear the sound of a bell.

Looking around for the source of the sound,

one will see that it comes from

the smaller horse in the field.

Attached to her bridle is a small bell.

It lets her blind friend know where she is,

so he can follow her.

As one stands and watches these two friends,

one sees how she is always checking on him,

and that he will listen for her bell

and then slowly walk to where she is

trusting that she will not lead him astray.

Like the owners of these two horses,

God does not throw us away

just because we are not perfect

or because we have problems

or challenges.

He watches over us and even brings others

into our lives to help us when we are in need.

Sometimes we are the blind horse

being guided by God and those whom he places in our lives.

Other times we are the guide horse, helping others see God.

thinking of you
- Wednesday, June 22, 2005 6:36 AM CDT

Happy Dad's Day Jim! Hope you are having a wonderful time camping...what a perfect way to relax and spend Father's Day! Thinking of you and your family.

- Sunday, June 19, 2005 8:29 PM CDT

I have a son who fell into my dads pool 23 years ago was resesitated then died almost 7 weeks later. he suffered unthinkably from "NEAR DROWNING". After 23 years I was frightend to go to these websites. I am happy for those of you who still have your angel with you. I am determined to help save some children and parent from such endless suffering on earth. I have tee-shirts with "NEARDROWNING" statistics and I give out flyers to anyone who will listen to my story.
Deborah Greatsinger <bluie710@wmconnect.com>
- Saturday, June 18, 2005 6:37 PM CDT

God Cares About You

Consider the earth...Our globe's weight has been estimated at six sextillion tons (a six with twenty-one zeroes). Yet it is precisely tilted at twent-three degrees; any more or any less and our seasons would be lost ina melted polar flood. Though our globe revolves at the rate of one-thousand miles per hour or twent-five thousand miles per day or ninemillion miles per year, none of us tumbles into orbit...

As you stand...observing God's workshop, let me pose a few questions. If he is able to place the stars in their sockets and suspend the sky like a curtain, do you think it is remotely possible that God is able to guie your life? If your God is mighty enough to ignite the sun, could it be that he is mighty enough to light your path? If he cares enough about the planet Saturn to give it rings or Venus to make it sparkle, is there an outside chance that he cares enough about you to meet your needs?
~~from Max Lucado's The Great House of God
~~~~~~
You are on my mind...sending you love across cyberspace.

- Monday, June 13, 2005 8:11 PM CDT

Hi Max, Spencer, Lisa and Jim!
I envy you all, I sure need some holidays as well! Well, I have to keep working but I wanted to send you a rainbow of love and ehaling light to all of you
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Monday, June 6, 2005 8:34 AM CDT

Hi Maxwell,
Thinking of you today.

Love
Sue
xxxxxx

www.postpals.co.uk

Sue <orangejammies@hotmail.co.uk>
Colchester, Essex, England - Sunday, June 5, 2005 6:14 AM CDT

To My Buffalo Gosewischs--

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you for tomorrow's surgery for Maxwell.

I love you!

Gramma, Mom, Joanne
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Monday, May 30, 2005 9:02 AM CDT

Maxie,
Open wide for the dentist today!
Love,
Gramma
joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Wednesday, May 25, 2005 8:32 AM CDT

Hey. Just wanted to stop by and say hello and let you know that I am oraying that things go well for Maxwell's surgery on the 31st of this month.
Jennifer <charay913@yahoo.com>
Wichita Falls, Texas - Wednesday, May 11, 2005 9:08 PM CDT

Hi Lisa, Jim & boys; It was so much fun to see the pictures of Max and the Web page. Susie came over to help me get on the Web....I'm slow but eventually find thing. I hope the surgery goes O.K. Enjoy the sunshine.......Spencer will soon be out of school and very busy. My love, Aunt Patty
Aunt Patty <pjrobertson1@msn.com>
Hopkins, MN - Tuesday, May 10, 2005 3:29 PM CDT

Hi Lisa and Jim,

I was watching the news about that little boy, Zach West from Shakopee who has a mysterious disease which they have not yet diagnosed. They also have a caringbridge site (it's linked from the KSTP.com website story. Anyway, I went out to read about Zach and found this poem that his mom put in one of her journals.... I think it's fitting for you guys too.

Welcome To Holland
by Emily Perl Kingsley
c1987 by Emily Perl Kingsley. All rights reserved.

I am often asked to describe the experience of raising a child with a disability - to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience to understand it, to imagine how it would feel. It's like this......

When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous vacation trip - to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make your wonderful plans. The Coliseum. The Michelangelo David. The gondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It's all very exciting.

After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes in and says, "Welcome to Holland."

"Holland?!?" you say. "What do you mean Holland?? I signed up for Italy! I'm supposed to be in Italy. All my life I've dreamed of going to Italy."

But there's been a change in the flight plan. They've landed in Holland and there you must stay.

The important thing is that they haven't taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine and disease. It's just a different place.

So you must go out and buy new guide books. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will meet a whole new group of people you would never have met.

It's just a different place. It's slower-paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you've been there for a while and you catch your breath, you look around.... and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills....and Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts.

But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy... and they're all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life, you will say "Yes, that's where I was supposed to go. That's what I had planned."

And the pain of that will never, ever, ever, ever go away... because the loss of that dream is a very very significant loss.

But... if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things ... about Holland.

Hey you two! Enjoy Holland! Max and Spencer have two very special parents!

Love ya
Julie
Julie Opheim <bohunkbbq@hotmail.com>
- Monday, May 9, 2005 2:37 PM CDT

Me too!

gramma Joanne
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Saturday, May 7, 2005 12:28 AM CDT

Jim and Lisa, Ok you two, you got me crying. Happy Anniversary. I love you all.
Grandma Karen
- Saturday, May 7, 2005 10:28 AM CDT

LISA,THANKS FOR THE SPECIAL NOTE! I TOO THANK YOU FOR BEING THERE FOR ME ALL THESE YEARS! WHO KNOWS WERE I WOULD BE WITH OUT YOU GUYS!I GUESS WE WORK PRETTY GOOD TOGATHER. JIM. LOVE YOU, MORE THAN YOU KNOW!
JIM GOSEWISCH <jim.gosewisch@minnetonka.k12.mn.us>
BUFFALO, MN WRIGHT - Friday, May 6, 2005 12:10 AM CDT

It's warming up, and Max will really enjoy riding now! Hope all is well with you in Buffalo and at Sugar Lake. It was good to see you, Lisa. Take care, and give Max a hug from Howard Lake.
Patti <barthpl2002@yahoo.com>
HL, MN - Thursday, May 5, 2005 12:32 AM CDT

Max, you look awsome in that horse!!! I know about horses and let me tell you you seem like a pro. Keep the good work sweetie I'm always sending you my best positive vibes!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, April 19, 2005 8:37 AM CDT

Maxwell, those smiles (that didn't seem to be seizures at all), that you gave me today, have just made me the happiest Gramma around. You made me feel so good! I love you!
Gramma
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Wednesday, April 13, 2005 5:33 PM CDT

What a wonderful morning it has been...and a gorgeous afternoon...hope you were able to get outside to play! Thinking of you and yours often.

- Thursday, April 7, 2005 2:34 PM CDT

Hi Max! I have to say that you are a cutie! Keep that smile who enlightens so many people's hearts!
Lisa and Jim you are doing a terrific job. My best good vibes to you
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Wednesday, April 6, 2005 8:42 AM CDT

Jim, Lisa, Spencer and Max, What a great update! We are all so blessed to have each other. Easter/birthday party was a wonderful gathering. The entire family is truly an amazing group. Max's picture is beautiful! What a smile! Take care and God bless. I love you all.
Grandma Karen
- Saturday, April 2, 2005 8:17 PM CST

Hi
My name is Kelli and I came across Max's website several years ago through a friend who also had a caringbridge web page. I have been following Max's "story" for several years and have been praying for your family.

I take care of a little boy who has cerebral palsy. He currently lives with his grandma who has raised him since birth. When she can no longer care for him, I will become his guardian. Kyle is growing into big boy and I know that some time in the next couple years, we may have to place hime in a group home because he is getting too big to handle at home. I know you have been very happy with the group home that Max is in. I am wondering where it is and if you have any information on it. Anything you could send me would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you so much,
Kelli
Kelli Kaetterhenry <froggirl55110@yahoo.com>
White Bear Lake, MN - Monday, March 28, 2005 3:21 PM CST

Maxwell, dear, dear boy,

It was so good to see and kiss you and hold your hand at Aunt Laurie's yesterday! You are growing so much! I can hardly believe it! I hope your Mom or Dad got a good picture of you with Jeremiah and Ezra and your shared ice cream birthday cake, so it can be posted on your website and we can all see it.

I bet you slept good last night after all the excitement. I sure did.

Remember who loves you-----your Gramma does!!
Gramma <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Monday, March 28, 2005 10:40 AM CST

Hey Lisa.

Just stopping in to say Hi. I think about you guys a lot and try to stop in and check up on you, but I don't always take the time to say hi.

Guess I missed Max's b-day. Happy B-day Max!

I think Easter is another of those holidays where you get reflective, thankful, and respectful of life - and all that it entails.

I'm glad you guys are in a "good place" with Max. It sounds like he's also feeling like he's in a good place. I'm excited to hear about his horseriding experiences this year (crossing my fingers we have a nice spring and summer!!)

Take care. Always thinking of you and sending good thoughts and prayers your way!
Love ya!
Julie
Julie Opheim <bohunkbbq@hotmail.com>
- Friday, March 25, 2005 2:20 PM CST

HAPPY EASTER LOVE WWW.POSTPALS.CO.UK

Post Pals <info@postpals.co.uk>
- Friday, March 25, 2005 9:29 AM CST

Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday..I hope you have a funfilled day and all your wishes come true..

http://seangels.org
Angel Deepoet
Angel deepoet <denise@deniseclark.net>
- Tuesday, March 22, 2005 10:34 PM CST

You have been on my mind so very much during the past couple weeks. As Holy Week has come upon us and so much has been in the news about life and death, as well as the tender way friends have been there during our own family's recent loss, I have spent much time in prayer and thinking about life, living, and loving....

I wonder, tho, what to think about a Father so loving... that He would allow us to have His Son here on earth so unselfishly...all because He wants each and every one of us to be with Him someday. I think that in some way, this kind of self-less, beatiful love is exemplified by your choices and your life...

~To humbly allow the one you cherish and love so deeply, to be cared for by another...for the good of him and your family...is a beautiful, self-giving, self-sacrificing love~

You could have chosen to had him stay with you no matter what....you could have chosen to be selfish---and no one would have blamed you!--and not believed that others could care for him very good. You could have chosen to have complete control over him at all times and have him there every moment so you could be sure of that... but you didn't... you chose a beautiful, soft, difficult, humble choice...and in doing so, allowed love and life to flow throughout your family.

I think about the tender way a foster mother I know cares for her foster child...and pray that Max has this great care. I think about how amazingly unselfish you, Lisa, and Jim are, to have made the decision to have Max at Sugar Lake. I am in awe of you and just don't know if I would have this kind of amazing strength. Tho it has been some time ago, I have been to Max's home at Sugar Lake, and it is beautiful. The staff I met were tender and very fond of Max....One day again this summer, I hope to get there again...and whisper a soft prayer in Max's ear. I have included your kids in my prayers on a regular basis. I love to read, and there is another wonderful book called, "The Power of a Praying Parent". It is so good, as are all the books by this author. I include Max and Spencer in these prayers when I say them. I hope you won't mind.

May you have an Easter filled with the blessings of joy, peace, love...and happiness.

- Tuesday, March 22, 2005 10:11 PM CST

Happy Birthday Maxwell, hope you had a great day because
Angel Eugenia, Simply Enchanting Angels http://seangels.org <anniebees@sbcglobal.net>
Hickman, CA USA - Monday, March 21, 2005 3:04 PM CST

Happy Birthday Max!! I hope you had fun at the movies.
Jaime www.caringbridge.org/nj/jaimelynn <jaime13042@aol.com>
nj usa - Monday, March 21, 2005 2:00 PM CST

Hi Maxwell!
A happy happy birthday to you! May all of your birthday wishes come true! :)

*love and huggles*
Mystical Angel
Simply Enchanting Angels
http://seangels.org
Mystical Angel <mystical_shadow_mistress@yahoo.com>
- Monday, March 21, 2005 12:31 AM CST

happy happy birthday to a very special kid!!!

angel karel
simply enchanting angels
www.seangels.org
karel <kidwellk2002@yahoo.com>
annandale, va - Monday, March 21, 2005 7:02 AM CST

Hey! I just came by to wish you a very happy birthday! hope you have a fantastic day and get lots of awesome presents!

*hugs*

angel sprite
simply enchanting angels
http://seangels.org
angel sprite <sheepocreep@yahoo.co.uk>
- Monday, March 21, 2005 6:04 AM CST

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAX!!!
Ann O'Brien <Oducks@msn.com>
Blaine, MN - Sunday, March 20, 2005 3:54 PM CST

center>

Happy Birthday !! Hope your movie and ice cream cake is lots of fun .

Angel Adragonfly/Simply Enchanting Angels <adragonfly99@aol.com>
Pineville , La USA - Sunday, March 20, 2005 9:11 AM CST

Maxwell

Wishing you a a wonderful day sweetie

Keep that terrific smile...

Nightowl

Nightowl (svnoi uguku)
USA - Sunday, March 20, 2005 7:46 AM CST

Happy Birthday Dear Maxwell, Happy Birthday to you!! You are BIGGER for sure and I love you that much more. Have a good day tomorrow with Mom, Dad and Spencer and we'll celebrate again next week with your cousins, Jeremiah and Ezra for all 3 birthdays! Love you!

Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Saturday, March 19, 2005 10:05 PM CST

Hi Max!
I think you have the most beautiful smile I ever saw. I just love to see this picture of you smiling. And I want to send you special chocolate hugs for it!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Wednesday, March 16, 2005 8:56 AM CST

Max you have a beautiful smile. Keep it there buddy, because is like a ray of sunshine!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Friday, March 11, 2005 11:18 AM CST

About God's Faithfulness:

We are God's idea, we are his, his face, his eyes, his hands, his touch. We are him. Look deeply into the face of every human being on earth, and you will see his likeness. Though some appear to be distant relatives, they are not. God has no cousins, only children.

We are incredible, the body of Christ. And though we may not act like our Father, there is no greater truth than this, We are his, unalterably, he loves us, undyingly, nothing can separate us from the love of Christ.
(See Romans 8:38-39)

I will always sing about the Lord's love and I will tell of his loyalty from now on. I will say, Your love continues forever and your loyalty goes on and on like the sky. Psalm 89:1-2

So know that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God. He WILL keep his agreement of love for a thousand lifetimes for people who love him and obey his commands. Deuteronomy 7:9

Jesus will keep you strong until the end so that there will be no wrong in you on the day our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. God, who has called you to share everything with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful. 1 Corinthians 1:8-9

Peace to you all!
pz <pammyz58@aol.com>
- Wednesday, March 9, 2005 10:39 PM CST

What a cutie!

, - Wednesday, March 9, 2005 7:49 AM CST

I love the new pictures!!! Cute,cute, cute!!! What a beautiful smile!!!
Ann O'Brien <Oducks@msn.com>
Blaine, MN - Monday, March 7, 2005 6:42 PM CST

Whoever is trying to see the new pictures Lisa put up, click on refresh first. I had to or just got the old pictures. Max, with your new teeth coming in, for some reason your mouth looks more like Spencer's. Could it be 'cuz you're brothers? I love both of you!
Gramma
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Sunday, March 6, 2005 4:27 PM CST

Hi Lisa & Jim,
I just thought I'd check on your update. You do a great job Lisa. I really enjoyed the pictures. I think of you often.
Love, Sunny Frees
Joyce Frees <johnfrees@aol.com>
Plymouth, MN - Thursday, March 3, 2005 5:09 PM CST

Maxwell,
The sun is shining and soon the days will be warm. I'm thinking about how you will look riding on Toby again and I can hardly wait to come and watch you looking so big and tall and balancing so well, way up high on Toby's back!

Just wanted you to know I'm thinking of you and loving you so much!

Gramma
Joanne
- Tuesday, March 1, 2005 8:47 AM CST

Jim, Lisa, Spencer and Max, Just stopping in for a visit. Thank you again and always for the updates. This weeks' was especially uplifting. You are all soooooo awesome!!!! You're always in my thoughts and prayers. Take care and God bless each of you. I love you all.
Grandma karen
- Saturday, February 26, 2005 10:29 AM CST

It is incredible to read all the wonderful things in your update. Hope you have a great Friday and fantastic weekend! May the blessings continue to shower upon you and your family!

, - Thursday, February 24, 2005 3:39 PM CST

PRAISE THE LORD!

With Love to everyone involved with Maxwell and to Maxwell himself!

Gramma
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Wednesday, February 23, 2005 3:10 PM CST

Hi Max! Is that I smile I see on your picture???? I thinkk it is! ALways bless your family with them miracle boy
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Wednesday, February 16, 2005 8:58 AM CST

Happy Valentines Day Red...
I'm sending lots of hugs and kisses your way
c <cbloom61@aol.com>
- Monday, February 14, 2005 7:07 AM CST

Hi Max, Jim, Spencer and Lisa,
Just passing by and sending you lots of chocolate hugs. You rock Max!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Monday, February 7, 2005 11:50 AM CST

Subject: John 3:l6

A little boy was selling newspapers on the corner,
the people were in and out of the cold.

The little boy was so cold that he wasn't trying to sell
many papers.

He walked up to a policeman and said,
"Mister,
you wouldn't happen to know where a poor boy could
find a warm place to sleep tonight would you?

You see, I sleep in a box up around the corner there and
down the alley and it's awful cold in there for tonight.

Sure would be nice to have a warm place to stay."

The policeman looked down at the little boy and said, "You go down the street to that big white house and you knock on the door. When they come out the door you just say
John 3:16, and they will let you in."

So he did. He walked up the steps and knocked on the
door, and a lady answered. He looked up and said,
"John 3:16." The lady said, "Come on in, Son."

She took him in and she sat him down in a split bottom
rocker in front of a great big old fireplace, and she went
off. The boy sat there for a while and thought to himself:
John 3:16...I don't understand it, but it sure makes
a cold boy warm.

Later she came back and asked him "Are you hungry?"
He said, "Well, just a little. I haven't eaten in a couple of
days, and I guess I could stand a little bit of food,"

The lady took him in the kitchen and sat him down to a table
full of wonderful food. He ate and ate until he couldn't eat
any more. Then he thought to himself:
John 3:16...Boy, I sure don't understand it but it sure
makes a hungry boy full.

She took him upstairs to a bathroom to a huge bathtub
filled with warm water, and he sat there and soaked for a
while. As he soaked, he thought to himself: John 3:16...
I sure don't understand it, but it sure makes a dirty boy
clean. You know, I've not had a bath, a real bath, in my
whole life. The only bath I ever had was when I stood in
front of that big old fire hydrant as they flushed it out.
The lady came in and got him. She took him to a room,
tucked him into a big old feather bed, pulled the covers
up around his neck, kissed him goodnight and turned out
the lights. As he lay in the darkness and looked out the
window at the snow coming down on that cold night, he thought to himself: John 3:16...I don't understand it but
it sure makes a tired boy rested.

The next morning the lady came back up and took him
down again to that same big table full of food. After he
ate, she took him back to that same big old split bottom
rocker in front of the fireplace and
picked up a big old Bible.

She sat down in front of him and looked into his young face. "Do you understand John 3:16?" she asked gently. He
replied, "No, Ma'am, I don't. The first time I ever heard it
was last night when the policeman told me to use it,"
She opened the Bible to John 3:16 and began to explain
to him about Jesus. Right there, in front of that big old fireplace, he gave his heart and life to Jesus. He sat there
and thought: John 3:16 -- don't understand it, but it sure
makes a lost boy feel safe.

You know, I have to confess I don't understand it either, how God was willing to send His Son to die for me, and how
Jesus would agree to do such a thing. I don't understand
the agony of the Father and every angel in heaven as they watched Jesus suffer and die. I don't understand the intense
love for ME that kept Jesus on the cross till the end.
I don't understand it, but it sure does make life worth living.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

c.
- Monday, February 7, 2005 7:22 AM CST

There was a recent article in the Mpls.Star/Trib. about the increased number of calls coming into the mental health crisis line for the months of Jan/Feb. The article went on to mention that these months historically are the hardest for those dealing with tough life circumstances. It is no wonder...dark, cold days, the same-old-same-old of life, not to mention the very real and tough stuff of what life throws our way.

Jesus says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light". Matt.11:28-30. This doesn't seem easy tho, does it, when life gets us down.

That is just what Satan wants. For his methods are not new. From the beginning he has used doubt, discontentment, and discouragment to burden us. For he can no longer hurt God himself, but he longs to hurt God through his precious children, us. If he can just get us to doubt God's Word or Will...(remember in the Garden of Eden) "Did God REALLY say that?", or if he can discourage us, or cause the least of discontentment in us, he can get ahold of our hearts and immobiize us.

How can we spread God's Word when we are taken over by doubt, discouragment, discontentment. How can we be a light when depression takes hold. How can we be thankful for all we have when Satan is right there to whisper in our ear all that we have not. It is difficult. Satan's tricks are not new, but they sure work. God tells us we are to guard our heart and mind against these. God says "..whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is ecxcellent or praiseworthy, think about such things." Phil 4:8. We are not to let our mind wander over to doubt.

We have no idea how come God allows some things. We do know He is a God of love and He came into this word NOT TO CONDEMN us. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him"....(John 3: 16-21) He doesn't send life circumstances to punish. He does allow things and we just may never know why. "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways" declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are myways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts". Isa 55: 8-9. But we do know that we are the holy sons and daughters of the Most High God. We know we are loved...wanted.. He is our Abba, our Daddy. He wants us. He forgives us. He weaps for us to come to him with it all. He has good plans for us. Let us trust our Abba daddy, and run to him. For, like the song says, "Sometimes he calms the storm, and sometimes he calms his child".

~~~~~~~
Dear Abba Father, take Lisa, Jim, Spencer, Max into your arms. Cradle them in your love. Give them strength, peace, happiness. Reveal yourself to them. Surround them with good friends and wonderful family. Be with their extended family. Hold them in your arms and let them know you will never leave them. In Jesus name, Amen.

~~~
Thinking of you so very much lately....

, - Sunday, February 6, 2005 8:14 AM CST

Hello Max, Been awile since I have been here but think of you often, I think i'm going to get a tube in my belly sorta like you have, only it won't be for feeding me. It will be to help me keep my blood clean, and balance out the other stuff my body needs. You look so nice in the pictures your Mom put up here, such a handsome Guy you are. will be out to see you soon. Love Grampa Jerry
Grammpa Jerry <Jgosewisch@aol.com>
- Saturday, February 5, 2005 11:53 PM CST

Ahhh...the wonderful power in prayer. Lisa and family~ I will not give up the prayers for you guys. I believe in prayer, the power of prayers on behalf of others, and that God knows what He is doing. He is still in charge even when we cannot feel Him. Lots of love to you and your wonderfully incredible family.

, - Wednesday, February 2, 2005 7:25 AM CST

I know im early, but

Happy Valentines Day

Love Viks from Post Pals
viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Tuesday, February 1, 2005 11:12 AM CST

Maxwell,

It makes me happy to see you doing your schoolwork with your
nurse! Good job!!

Love,
Gramma
Joanne <grammacongo@aool.com>
- Thursday, January 27, 2005 6:15 PM CST

Joanne, You are so sweet. :) When you read your entry it is perfectly clear what you meant. You are such a good Grandma and Momma.

, - Thursday, January 27, 2005 8:11 AM CST

And the third picture in the photo part tells me what Max thinks of his Gramma's guestbook entries!

Joanne
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Wednesday, January 26, 2005 6:13 PM CST

Lisa,

And anyone who reads this----there should've been a comma after miserable, in the last entry.

She was miserable before she came to be with Max and stayed even though she was miserable. Does that confuse the issue more or make it clearer?
Give me a call, Lisa and I'll try to explain what I mean. LOL

Joanne
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Wednesday, January 26, 2005 6:09 PM CST

Lisa,

While the first picture in the photos (the kissing one) shows a Mother's love, the second one really really shows it! A mom who feels just miserable being with her dearly loved boy who just sleeps through it all!
Love you!

Joanne
Joanne <Gramma Congo@aol.com>
- Wednesday, January 26, 2005 10:08 AM CST

"If only you knew..." are God's words to us. No lectures. No speeches. No homilies on how far he has come to help. No finger-pointing at our past. None of that. Just an appeal. An appeal for trust

"If only you knew that I came to help and not condemn. If only you knew that tomorrow will be better than today. If only you knew the gift I have brought: eternal life. If only you knew I want you safely home." If only you knew.

What wistful words to come from the lips of God...If only we knew to trust. Trust that God is in our corner. Trust that God wants what is best. Trust that he really means it when he says, "I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future..."(Jer.29:11)

If only we could learn to trust Him.

But how hard it is...we quiver like the bird on the ledge, ducking the hand that comes to help. We forget He is the pilot and we are His passenger.

We accuse, falsly...

If only we knew. When He washed the disciples' feet, He was washing ours, when He calmed their storms, he was calming ours; when He forgave...he was forgiving all the penitent. If only we knew...

He still makes our storms His path, our graves his proof, and our soulds His passion. He hasn't changed. He trims the branches so we can bear fruit...He calls the sheep..He hears the prayers... His thunder is still gentle and his gentleness still thunders. If only we knew...the Gift and the Giver.

....All from Max Lucado's A Gentle Thunder.

Lisa, you and your family are held close to my heart and prayed for so often.

- Wednesday, January 26, 2005 7:53 AM CST

From Max Lucado: God's purpose for your life...

It's easy to thank God when he does what we want. But God doesn't aways do what we want. Ask Job. His empire collapsed, his children were killed, and what was a healthy body, became a rage of boils. From whence came this torrent? From whence will come any help?
Job goes straight to God and pleads his case. His head hurts. His body hurts. His heart hurts. And God answers. Not with answers, but with questions. An ocean of questions..
After several dozen questions... Job is left on the beach drenched and wide-eyed... he has gotten the point. What is it?
The point is this: God owes no one anything. No reasons. No explanations. Nothing. If he gave them, we couldn't understand them. God is God. He knows what he is doing. When you can't trace his hand, trust his heart.

The Lord says, "My thoughts are not like your thoughts. Your ways are not like my ways. Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9

I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future. Then you will call my name. You will come to me and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will search for me. And when you search for me with all your heart, you will find me!
Jeremiah 29:11-13

Do not lose the courage you had in the past, which has a great reward. You must hold on, so you can do what God wants and receive what he has promised. Hebrews 10:35-36

We must not become tired of doing good. We will receive our harvest of eternal life at the right time if we do not give up. Galations 6:9

Jesus said, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God and trust in me." John 14:1

But the Lord is faithful and will GIVE YOU STRENGTH and will protect you from the evil one. 2 Thess. 3:3

Prayer for the day: Lord, teach me to set our hopes on heaven, to hold firmly to the promise of eternal life, so that we can withstand the struggles and storms of this world. Amen.

I am the Lord, the God of EVERY PERSON on the earth. NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR ME. Jeremiah 32:27

Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and
not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

Jesus said: "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33

pz
- Monday, January 24, 2005 0:21 AM CST

Lisa, You are an inspiration to me! You always pick up on something that Max has done that shows us that he is paying attention to the world around him. I love the picture of you kissing Max and Max smiling. I wonder what that juice company is going to send you? Keep warm!
Tammy J. <joshjames@aol.com>
St. Louis Park, MN 55426 - Saturday, January 22, 2005 10:48 PM CST

I hope that Max is doing good. I want to come over and visit sometime.
mandy schutz <mandythemommy@yahoo.com>
St Cloud, MN USA - Saturday, January 22, 2005 7:34 PM CST

This is my first time visiting Max's site. It is incredible. I agree with Patti, it's great a Company is willing to help. So, here's to the company that makes Spiderman - SEND ONE TO MAX!.
Mary Streich <marystreich@mchsi.com>
Howard Lake, MN USA - Wednesday, January 19, 2005 1:37 PM CST

Good Morning Red,
The update was very interesting.
thanks for sharing. hope you are staying
warm.luv you bunches
xoxoxo
c.
- Monday, January 17, 2005 7:17 AM CST

Lisa - it was so exciting to read your updates this week! You taught me lots about eyesight and the connections to your brain. I am very proud of the company sending you coupons, and now I'm also very curious who they are and what they have planned for Max! Keep us posted. We'll stay warm, and back at you.............
Patti <barthpl2002@yahoo.com>
HL, MN - Friday, January 14, 2005 4:00 PM CST

The evidence is in, Maxwell, you are beautiful! (see the picture above the update.)
Gramma <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Wednesday, January 12, 2005 9:31 PM CST

Hi Max!
Don´t you think today is a perfect day to send you a bunch of chocolate hugs??? because they are already on its way!
I blieve in you kiddo, you are a miracle
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Tuesday, January 11, 2005 9:31 AM CST

A little girl went to her bedroom and pulled a glass jelly jar from its hiding place in the closet.

She poured the change out on the floor and counted it carefully. Three times. The total had to be exactly perfect. No chance here for mistakes.

Carefully placing the coins back in the jar and twisting on the cap, she slipped out the back door and made her way six blocks to the drug store.

She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her some attention but he was too busy at this moment.

She twisted her feet to make a scuffing noise. Nothing.

She cleared her throat with the most disgusting sound she could muster. No good.

Finally she took a quarter from her jar and banged it on the glass counter. That did it!

"And what do you want, little girl?" the pharmacist asked in an annoyed tone of voice. "I'm talking to my brother is visiting here from Chicago and I'm talking to him. I haven't seen him in ages," he said without waiting for a reply to his question.

"Well, I want to talk to you about my brother," the little girl answered in the same annoyed tone. "He's really, really sick... and I want to buy a miracle."

I beg your pardon?" said the pharmacist.

"His name is Andrew and he has something bad growing inside his head and my Daddy says only a miracle can save him now. So how much does a miracle cost?"

"We don't sell miracles here, little girl. I'm sorry but I can't help you," the pharmacist said, softening a little.

"Listen, I have the money to pay for it. If it isn't enough, I will get the rest. Just tell me how much it costs."

The pharmacist's brother had been listening to the conversation. He stepped toward the little girl. Even at her young age, she noticed he was very well dressed.

He stooped down and asked the little girl, "What kind of a miracle does your brother need?"

I don't know," she replied with her eyes welling up. I just know he's really sick and Mommy says he needs an operation, but my Daddy can't pay for it, so I want to use my money to buy the miracle he needs."

"How much do you have?" asked the man from Chicago.

"One dollar and eleven cents," she answered, barely audibly, "and it's all the money I have, but I can get some more if I need to."

"Well, what a coincidence," smiled the man. "A dollar and eleven cents---the exact price of a miracle for little brothers."

He took her money in one hand and with the other hand he grasped her mitten and said "Take me to where you live. I want to see your brother and meet your parents. Let's see if I have the miracle you need."

The well dressed man was Dr. Carlton Armstrong, a surgeon, specializing in neuro-surgery. He did the operation completely free of charge and it wasn't long until Andrew was home again and doing well.

Mom and Dad were happily talking about the chain of events that had led them to this point in their lives. "That surgery," her Mom whispered. "was a real miracle.
I wonder how much it would have cost?"

The little girl smiled. She knew exactly how much a miracle cost...one dollar and
eleven cents. It also took the faith of a little child.

In our lives, we never know how many miracles we will need. A miracle is not the
suspension of natural law, but the operation of a higher law.

A ball is a circle, no beginning, no end. It keeps us together like our circle of friends. But the treasure for you to see is the treasure of friendship you've granted to me.

MY OATH TO YOU

When you are sad.....I will dry your tears.

When you are scared.....I will comfort your fears.

When you are worried.....I will give you hope.

When you are confused.....I will help you cope.

And when you are lost....And can't see the light.

I shall be your beacon.....Shining ever so bright.

This is my oath.....I pledge till the end.

Why you may ask?.....Because you're my friend.

Signed: GOD

,
- Thursday, January 6, 2005 7:30 AM CST

Happy New Year for Lisa, Jim, Spencer and Max!!! I only wish for the best for you all. I have great hopes for this new year that is begining and I wish many of your dreams will come true!
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Wednesday, January 5, 2005 9:17 AM CST

Jean ~ Quilts of Love <jean@quiltsoflove.com>
- Friday, December 31, 2004 3:37 PM CST

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! May 2005 be as wonderful as you are!
The O'Brien's <Oducks@msn.com>
Blaine, MN - Friday, December 31, 2004 3:09 PM CST

A BIG wish for a wonderful New Year to the Gosewisch family!
I am humbled by the strength and love you radiate on down to the rest of us.
God Bless You in 2005. May His miracles continue.
(Maxwell has grown almost twice in size!!)
Aunt Bev & Uncle Bob <bandbkulseth2@aol.com>
Mankato, - Friday, December 31, 2004 11:49 AM CST

Happy New Year Red,
I so enjoyed seeing you at christmas.
You did so well with all the noise and
We all know there is nothing quiet about
Our family. Maxie I pray for this up coming year
to be filled with great wonders for you.
know that you are loved and thought about often.

c.
- Friday, December 31, 2004 7:14 AM CST

Max

Wasn't Christmas wonderful and fun yesterday at your home? I had such a good feeling while I was there and you looked like you liked it too, even though we all got pretty noisy with the present game. I can hardly wait to see the pictures with the all the cousins together!

Remember what I told you before I left "I love you".

Gramma
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Sunday, December 26, 2004 10:06 AM CST

Maxwell, I can hardly wait to see you, and hug you, and kiss you on Christmas Day! That will be such a good present for me from you!!

Love,

Your Gramma
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Thursday, December 23, 2004 8:47 PM CST

Good Morning Maxie,
You should look out the window,
this morning and see the snow on the ground.
Its almost christmas "YEAH".
Im looking forward to seeing you on christmas.

c.
- Tuesday, December 21, 2004 6:40 AM CST

Hey Max!
I just love the new picture on your page, you have such a beutiful eyes! It's getting pretty cold in here and today everybody joked me at work because I wear a hat. They tell me if I'm Russian or plain crazy!
The most big cyberhug for you!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Thursday, December 16, 2004 11:49 AM CST

Hi Jim, Lisa, Spencer and Max:
Just passing by and sending you a bucng of sunshine rays to warm your hearts :D

Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Tuesday, December 14, 2004 3:37 PM CST

Hi Jim, Lisa, Spencer and Max,
Wonderful stories and pictures. What a wonderful family and hope filled, caring approach to life! Thanks, Jim, for giving me the web address and sharing your family with me! Marlys (OT at Clear Springs)
Marlys Gapstur Sand <marlysgs@msn.com>
- Monday, December 13, 2004 11:42 AM CST

I want a whole big photo album of those guys! I especially like the second pic with Max looking down at Spence on the floor beside him. Love you guys!!!
Mom/Gramma

Joanne
- Sunday, December 12, 2004 6:40 PM CST

I'm so sorry the bugs are all around you. I had mono Spencer, so take plenty of fluids and a good rest and it will go away.
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Wednesday, December 8, 2004 11:52 AM CST

looked like a pretty good day to go tree hunting.
the picture's of Gracie are awesome.cant wait to see
her up close at christmas. I'm glad maxie is staying
healthy. Hope Spencer gets better soon.
c.
,
- Monday, December 6, 2004 7:38 AM CST

I know I have written this one before, but I like it!

That God is In Control......

We need to hear that God is still in control. We need to hear that it's not over until he says so. We need to hear that life's mishaps and tragedies are not a reason to bail out. They are simply a reason to sit tight.

Corrie Ten Boom used to say, When the train goes through the tunnel and the world gets dark, do you jump out? Of course not, you sit still and trust the engineer to get you through.".......

Next time you are disappointed, don't panic, don't jump out, don't give up. Just be patient and let God remind you he's still in control. It ain't over till it's over.

(Max Lucado - He still moves stones)

I am the God of every person on the earth, nothing is impossible for me. Jeremiah 32:27
pz
- Wednesday, December 1, 2004 0:34 AM CST

It was good to hear about the weekend you had - sounds like you had a busy, but relaxing time. Max seeing all the lights is a good way for him to stay in touch with the holidays. We take the decorations for granted! Kelly is thinking about a child assistance course in a technical college after graduation. I told her we need to go visit Max at Sugar Lake - then she could see the house and how nice it is. Also, the difference between a house for adults (where she works now) and for children. Isn't there a new resident at Sugar Lake? It will be good for Kelly to see the house. Hope all is going well for Spencer and Jim, too....say hi from me! Take care! Patti.
Patti <barthpl2002@yahoo.com>
HL, MN - Monday, November 29, 2004 3:22 PM CST

Beautiful, so beautiful. It seems you (whoever you are) must be right there when Lisa interacts with her dear Maxwell. Thankyou for putting it into words for us all to picture at any time we read your Max thoughts.
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Monday, November 29, 2004 10:05 AM CST

Max's World Through Mommy's Eyes...
Your love tells me of a world I can't tell you about in return...
but know that I hear you and through you
I will learn..
Of the bright sunshine and the green, yellow and pink of
spring...
mommy, I see them and joy to you
they bring...
the colors of summer...the flowers so bright...
the long days of glorious yellow sunlight...
the colors of fall, oh mommy, the leaves are so red...
like me, mommy, you tell me...the color on my head!
The colors of winter..the deep winter snow,
the red and green of another Christmas yet to come...
Oh, mommy don't stop telling me ...
we've only begun.

Lisa~ thoughts of you and the loving mommy you are...don't stop talking to Max the way you do! Hear hears you and the love in your voice.

, - Sunday, November 28, 2004 8:02 PM CST

Happy Thanksgiving to the Gosewisch (and Lindeen) families!
I love the new pictures. The update was uplifting! Little happenings, new beginnings! It is good to see you and Jimmy on the same wavelength. It's a feel-good bonding. Best of everything to all of you and God Bless. Way to go, Spencer, with that Iowa Basics test & all. Testing is necessary I guess.
Aunt Bev & Uncle Bob <bandbkulseth@aol.com>
Mankato, - Thursday, November 25, 2004 4:28 PM CST

Happy Thanksgiving Red and Family.
We all have alot to be thankful for.
I feel blessed that you are part of my family.
Love you all
C.
carrie
- Thursday, November 25, 2004 9:32 AM CST

Happy Thanksgiving to each of you! I have much to be thankful for and about and you are big part of it!

I love you!
Mom
- Wednesday, November 24, 2004 8:52 PM CST

What a cute little boy Spence is. I will keep him and you all in my prayers and thoughts. Keep up the work even when it seems like you should give up. ~Hug's Tracy and Robby~

This is Robert's site. http://www.robbyschiffernstbi.com
Tracy <rocky@brightok.net>
Agra, Ok USA - Monday, November 22, 2004 4:19 PM CST

I need to tell all of you that it's Spencer in the red costume--this Gramma will soon have to reach up to hug him!! He is a special kid in so many ways.

Love,

Gramma
Joanne
- Monday, November 22, 2004 8:28 AM CST

We all have so much to be thankful for this year...

I love the new picture's.
Red is sooooo Handsome..
Hope you feel better soon.
Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Love you all so much

c.
- Monday, November 22, 2004 6:42 AM CST

Hey Lisa
You should be very proud of all the improvement Max is doing daily. Lots of chocolate hugs for you and your family!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Sunday, November 21, 2004 7:46 PM CST

what a wonderful update. thank you for sharing all the good stuff. It makes my heart smile. Im glad Spencer is doing ok. I do not think there is a magic wand to make kids like school.I have had my share of times I wish that I had one.hang in there.hope you guys have a great weekend.hope you get some rest so you can shake that cold and start to feel better.
c.
- Friday, November 19, 2004 7:32 AM CST

Lisa,

You must be out putting up the lights. I tried to get you on the phone, but only got the answering thingy. So I went to read Max's site and I was so excited to see the new update and about Spence's school stuff! Hurray for Spence. I can't seem to find my magic wand for helping him be excited about school too! I have the enlargement of Jim and Max in the tub in a frame in my room--it gives me such a feeling of comfort to look at it. Thankyou for it all ( the action of Jim and Max, you taking the picture , getting it made and giving to me). I love each and every one of you!

Joanne/Mom/Gram

Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Wednesday, November 17, 2004 12:30 AM CST

Love

Viks

viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Sunday, November 14, 2004 9:37 AM CST

Did you see the incredibly beautiful show in the sky last night?! ...Sure hope you took that camera out and captured a tiny part of God's wonder with it! Sure am wishing for a great week for your family and hope your weekend was fun.

, - Monday, November 8, 2004 7:02 AM CST

hey guys haven't been here in a long long time. doesn't mean I don't think about you always. Boy are we a great family or what.
q
- Wednesday, November 3, 2004 1:25 AM CST

A moment in time, forever ours to see and feel---

Thankyou Lisa

Love to each of you!

Mom/Gramma
Joanne
- Monday, November 1, 2004 8:25 AM CST

Lisa you won the photo contest hands down.
Scott will be so jealous....=)
Im glad you got to do some trick or treating.
Your love and compassion are so inspirational.
You all will be in my thoughts and Prayers.
I pray that school and homework will not be
so over whelming for spencer.That he will have the
confidence he needs to succeed.as we all know he does.
c.
- Monday, November 1, 2004 6:55 AM CST

Lisa,

Bless you, bless you, bless you. I can sooooo feel your tears....and your hope.

Love,
Lonna (Israel's mom)
Lonna Cobb (caringbridge.org/mn/israelcobb <jlcobb22@hotmail.com>
Brooklyn Center, MN USA - Sunday, October 31, 2004 10:26 PM CST

Lisa,

Bless you, bless you, bless you. I can soooo feel your tears....and your hope.

Love,
Lonna (Israel's mom)
Lonna Cobb (caringbridge.org/mn/israelcobb) <jlcobb22@hotmail.com>
Brooklyn Center, MN Hennepin - Sunday, October 31, 2004 10:22 PM CST

Happy Halloween to Lisa, Jim, Spencer and Max!!!!

That new picture in the album is awsome. You should do it in black and white, it will look so cool!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Sunday, October 31, 2004 7:25 PM CST

I love the new pictures!! That one is so beautiful of Max and Jim...you sure can see the love between them. What blessings!

, - Sunday, October 31, 2004 6:47 PM CST

You are right Lisa...That's a beautiful picture of Jim and Max and it does bring tears to your eyes. The other pictures are GREAT too. Max's new haircut is way COOOOL!!
Ann O'Brien <Oducks@msn.com>
Blaine, MN - Sunday, October 31, 2004 11:51 AM CST

Loving you Maxwell!
gramma
- Thursday, October 28, 2004 10:37 AM CDT

Hello Max, Lisa, Spencer and Jim!
I have been thinking about you guys and sending my best positive thoughts your way. You all are troopers!
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Wednesday, October 27, 2004 8:32 PM CDT

There are somedays when life is just too much... then there are those days when everything around you seems to be wonderful... I hope this week you have many days filled with wonder!

- Wednesday, October 27, 2004 8:01 PM CDT

Just a short hello from me,

Viks
viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Tuesday, October 19, 2004 10:09 AM CDT

Think about Your Life

“Lord, teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12

Well, here it is another week. How have things been going for you? Time just marches on, doesn’t it? But listen—God doesn’t just want us flipping pages on the calendar, randomly going through life. He doesn’t want us paging through our days casually and apathetically like we’re in some doctor’s waiting room just passing time. God wants us to use our time wisely.

For the majority of this week on the broadcast, we’re on the subject of “Numbering Our Days: Six Keys to Effective Time Management.” Now just in case you’re thinking, “I don’t want to hear dumb stuff that I could get from some business seminar.” Amen. That’s why I want to turn your attention to Psalm 90 for God’s instruction.

Psalm 90 is the oldest Psalm. Did you know that? Moses wrote it. But here’s the thing—only time changes; people don’t change that much. People still struggle with the same things; we still go through the same burdens as Moses’ day. Psalm 90:12 is a good summary of this whole topic. It says, “Lord, teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.”

On the broadcast we’ll look at six ways we can number our days, six ways to measure them, to assess them, to consider them. Let’s look at just one now: REFLECT. You’ve got to think about your life and look at it.

Life doesn’t finish for us on the upturn. Just when you get old and you have enough wisdom to live life well, you’re into eternity. When we’re most prepared to live life, we’re almost done. Notice this in Psalm 90:9, “For all our days pass away under your wrath; we bring our years to an end like a sigh.” Newsflash: This life doesn’t go on forever. Everyone has a certain number of days on earth. In fact, verse 10 tells us, “The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength, eighty” So that settles it—you get only so many years. For most people that’s 70 years. You say, I thought it was a lot more random than that. Not really.

Those who study mortality rates tell us that if you put 1,000 people in a room, 300 of the people will die of heart disease, 230 from cancer, 70 from a stroke, 200 from other causes related to aging, 110 from other diseases, and 41 people will die suddenly from an accident. Give or take a few years, it’s just like the Bible says. Most of us will live to be about 70, so..

If you’re 30—you’ve got 40 years to go.
If you’re 40—you’ve got 30 years to go.
If you’re 50—you’ve got 20 years to go.
If you’re 60—you’ve got 10 years to go.
If you’re 70—you’re in overtime.

Let’s not presume or assume that we’re going to have more or less.

Our prayer needs to be this: Lord, teach us to number our days. There’s no mystery about it. God forgive us for living like we will always live. Let’s not be surprised when our earthly life comes to a conclusion. Let’s live our lives in such a way that we recognize this does not go on forever.

How do you do that? Biblically speaking, reflection includes three things:

Look back. Hey, how was your week? How did it go? How were you in the relationships that matter most to you? How were you at work? How did you handle the challenges that you faced? Look back and think about it! Hey, but when I do that I see some ways I really blew it. So . . .

Look up! Take those things before God. Ask Him to forgive you. Purpose in your heart to begin again. Someone has said that the unexamined life is not worth living. Take some time to reflect. Then…

Look ahead. For many years now, every Sunday night or early Monday morning I take some time to look ahead. What’s coming this week? Who will I be talking to, where will I be going? Where are the holes in the road? Where are the hurdles that will have to be cleared? Think about your life.
You’re like, “Where do you find time to do that?” My point exactly. First of all, do this by beginning every day with the Lord. Secondly, God has given us one day a week where we take time to rest (this is God’s model, Genesis 2:2; and command, Exodus 20:8-11) and part of resting is reflecting.

This kind of reflecting will help you get priorities in line. You’ll get the big things at the top and be able to devote yourself to the things that matter most. You won’t do that well if you don’t take some time to reflect.

Time is to be managed for a purpose. There are some things that God wants done—later through us, but first in us. His first agenda is to build His character in us. Are you cooperating with that?

p
- Monday, October 18, 2004 10:30 PM CDT

Jim, Lisa, Spencer and Max, I haven't been on this site for 2-3 weeks and all I can say is "AWESOME". The pictures, the messages.........It's all just awesome, beautiful, and amazing. I love you all.
Grandma Karen
- Sunday, October 17, 2004 2:52 PM CDT

Love the pictures, Lisa!

, - Friday, October 15, 2004 6:34 AM CDT

I love the new pictures!!! Stop down to Ryan's room when you go to Gillette for his TLSO fitting. You're welcome to hang out and watch T.V. if you want! We would love to see you! I 'll try to call you this weekend to see what day you will be there.
Ann O'Brien <Oducks@msn.com>
Blaine, MN - Friday, October 15, 2004 0:16 AM CDT

When I opened up the site today and saw that wonderful unexpected picture at the top of the update, it took my breath away and the tears came too. What beautiful symbolism, of what I have observed first hand, of how Jim and Lisa have linked together during these last four years in their decision making and agreed upon conclusions in very difficult times for what is best for Maxwell. I am so thankful for all the picture shows. (Scott you get the photo prize for sure!!!).

with much love to you all----

Mom
jd
- Thursday, October 14, 2004 6:35 PM CDT

The pictures are beautiful, Lisa! The day Laurie and I went to Sugar Lake the trees were just starting to turn. These pictures show how beautiful fall is. You are right about how noisy it is in Walmart. But maybe Max is focusing so hard on what's going on around him that he doesn't have the seizures? Then he should be going more often, right!! We'll be praying for your patience as you work through the math with Spencer. I was never very good at that homework thing with our kids (left it to the teacher!). Keep on writing, Lisa, and good luck at all the appointments next week. Have a great weekend - Love, Patti.
PB <barthpl2002@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, October 14, 2004 9:20 AM CDT

Island Princess here to wish you a Happy Halloween.

Butterfly Island

Island Princess <mooks@bellsouth.net>
- Thursday, October 14, 2004 8:26 AM CDT

Jim and Lisa, You may not remember us, our daughter was at Gillette when Max was there. She was 16 and in a car accident. The last time we saw Max was in about Feb. of 2001 when we had taken Jacquie back for an appointment at Gillette. We went back to show her "her room", and Max was in it! I came across this article today about Max that was in the Star Tribune from Jan. 20, 2001. I'm not real good with computers, and so I put off visiting your site. Today I was drawn to it. WOW! Max has sure come a long way. Prayer is the answer. Jeff, Jane and Jacquie
Jane Distad <jjjdistad@means.net>
Franklin, MN USA - Wednesday, October 13, 2004 11:44 AM CDT

And I remember denying that he had red hair and it was the hospital lighting that made it look that way. Thinking it would get blonder but turning out to get redder each day LOL. I was surprised and thought how well it fit him :o)

I too love his red hair and think he is beautiful. I think your beautiful too Joanne. We love you so much.

Lisa (Maxies Mom) <gosewischj@aol.com>
- Friday, October 8, 2004 8:10 PM CDT

Maxwell,

I've been looking at your pictures on this site again and I am remembering the moment you came out and greeted the world and I said "I think he has red hair!" (did I say it out loud?). How I love your red hair and YOU!! You are beautiful!!!

Love,
Gramma
gc
- Friday, October 8, 2004 9:05 AM CDT

Good Morning Maxie,
You have been so much on my mind.
hope you get a chance to get out side
and enjoy the nice weekend we are suppose
to have.
My Heart Is full of love for You....
XOXOXOX
c
- Friday, October 8, 2004 6:13 AM CDT

It's not about you.
The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. Its' far greater than you family, your career, or even your wildest dreams and ambitions. If you want to know why you were placed on this planet..you must begin with God. You were born BY His purpose and FOR His purpose. The search for the purpose of life has puzzled people for thousands of years. That's because we typically begin at the wrong starting point...ourselves. We ask self-centered questions like "What do I want to be?...etc" ...But focusing on ourselves will never reveal our life's purpose. ....

The Bible offers three metaphors that teach us God's view of life: Life is a test, life is a trust and life is a temporary assignment...Life on earth is a Test. This life metaphore is seen in stories throughout the Bible. God continually tests people's character, faith, obedience, love, integrity, and loyalty. Words like trials, temptations, refining and testing occur more than 200 times in the Bible. God tested Abraham by asking him to offer his son Isaac...God tested Jacob..Adam and Eve...David.

Character is both developed and revealed by tests and ALL of life is a test. You are always being tested. God constantly watches your response to people, problems, success, conflict, illness, disappointment, and even the weather! He even watches the simplest actions such as when you open a door for others...

We can't know all the tests God will give you, but we can predict some of them, based on the Bible. You will be tested by major changes, delayed promises, impossible problems, unanswered prayers, undeserved criticism, and even senseless tragedies....
...when you understand that life is a test, you realize that NOTHING is insignificant in your life. Even the smallest incident has signficance for your character development. EVERY day is an important day, and every second is a growth opportunity to deepen your character, to demonstrate love, or to DEPEND ON GOD. Some tests seem overwhelming, while others you don't even notice. But all have eternal implications....

You were put on earth to make a contribution. You weren't created just to consume resources -to eat, breathe, and take up space. God designed you to make a difference with your life! While many best-selling books offer advice on how to "get" the most out of life, that's not the reason God made you. You were created to add to life on earth, not just take from it. God wants you to give something back. ...

All above taken from Rick Warren in, "The Purpose Driven Life"...

Lisa~ This book is wonderful....go to the book store and buy it, it is not a book you will want to get from the library...you will want to own it. Get a highlighter, your Bible, and a few minutes each day and begin this book. It is wonderful!!

, - Wednesday, October 6, 2004 8:15 AM CDT

Satisfied? That is one thing we are not. We are not satisfied...
We take a vacation of a lifetime...We satiate ourselves with sun, fun, and good food. But we are not even on the way home before we dread the end of the trip and begin planning another.
We are not satisfied.
As a child we say, "If only I were a teenager." As a teen we say, "If only I were an adult." As an adult, "If I only were married." As a spouse,"If only I had kids."...
We are not satisfied. Contentment is a difficult virtue. Why?
Because there is nothing on earth that can satisfy our deepest longing. We long to see God and our loved ones in heaven. The leaves of life are rustling with the rumor that we will--and we won't be satisfied until we do.
(When God Whispers your Name - Max Lucado)

Do not worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks. And God's peace, which is so great we cannot understand it, will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus...I have learned to be satisfied with everything that happens. I know how to live when I am poor and I know how to live when I have plenty.
Philippians 4:6-7,11

We know that our body, the tent we live in here on earth, will be destroyed. But when that happens, God will have a house for us. It will not be a house made by human hands; instead, it will be a home in heaven that will last forever.
2 Corinthians 5:1
pz
- Tuesday, October 5, 2004 4:40 PM CDT

PASSION:
All of us at some time or another, need help.
Whether we're giving or receiving help, each
one of us has something valuable to bring to
this world.

-Fred Rogers
c.
- Monday, October 4, 2004 6:12 AM CDT

AMEN
J <grammac@aol.com>
- Sunday, October 3, 2004 6:33 PM CDT

When you come to this site...something amazing is felt...
the warmth of family and the power of love...
to read what you write..then others responding to that...
IT IS POWERFUL!
To read of the love that JoAnn has for your family...what a MOM...but not just what she writes to you, to see her write loving things towards others...
to read of the kind words Grampa Jerry writes to his little grandson...
to read of the love Karen has for her Savior...
to read of the support your Uncle Howard and Aunt Bev write...
to read the gentle sweet words of your sister-in-law Carrie...
to read of the AWESOME AND INSPIRING words of whoever Pam Z is ...wow...
to read of the words of all the others...
to read of all the encouragement...the love...the support...the beauty of a family and the love of friends...
The beauty of a mother who loves her boys unconditionally, such an example of our Father's love for us.
Do you see Lisa, you make a difference?
All that come here to write and pray...
that come here to read...
they all make a difference...
to me...
to us all.

, - Friday, October 1, 2004 7:24 AM CDT

Holding you, Jim, Spencer, and Max close to my heart.

, - Wednesday, September 29, 2004 6:28 AM CDT

I'm glad you put up some of the old pictures. They are some of my very favorites. I can and do look at them at least twice every day!
J <congo@aol.com>
- Tuesday, September 28, 2004 10:27 PM CDT

ABOUT HOPE:

It's hard to see things grow old. The town in which I grew up is growing old...Some of the buildings are boarded up. Some of the houses are torn down...The old movie house where I took my dates has "For Sale" on the marquee...

I wish I could make it all new again. I wish I could blow the dust off the streets...but I can't.

I can't. But God can. "He restores my soul," wrote the shepherd. He doesn't camouflage the old; he restores the new. The Master Builder will pull out the original plan and restore it. He will restore the vigor. He will restore the energy. He will restore the hope. He will restore the soul.
(The Applause of Heaven - Max Lucado)

If God is with us, no one can defeat us. He did not spare his own Son, but gave him for us all. So with Jesus, God will surely give us all things. Who can accuse the people God has chosen? No one, because God is the One who makes them right. Romans 8:31-33

The Lord's love never ends;
his mercies never stop.
They are new every morning;
Lord, your loyalty is great.
I say to myself, "The Lord is mine,
so I hope in him."
The Lord is good to those who hope in him,
to those who seek him.
Lamentations 3:22-25

Do not worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks. And God's peace, which is so great we cannot understand it, will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus...I have learned to be satisfied with the things I have and with everything that happens. I know how to live when I am poor, and I know how to live when I have plenty. I have learned the secret of being happy at any time in everything that happens...I can do all things through Christ, because he gives me strength. Philippians 4:6-7, 11-13

pz
- Sunday, September 26, 2004 11:42 PM CDT

My prayers are ongoing!

I send you love---

Mom Joanne
Joanne <Grammacongo@aol.com>
- Sunday, September 26, 2004 6:22 PM CDT

Jim, Lisa, Spencer, and Max, We never know what twists and turns life will bring. There is only One constant. May God continue to be with you and bless each of you. I love you all.
Grandma Karen
- Saturday, September 25, 2004 8:42 AM CDT

Hello Family...=)
I have been thinking alot about you lately.
Just want you to know that I love you very much.
that you are good parents and brother.I pray that
God will continue to give you what you need.I pray for
the all wonderful miracle.
xoxoxo
c.
- Thursday, September 23, 2004 6:39 AM CDT

You have been on my mind. It is September. I wonder if the anticipation of something difficult to go through, like the anniversary of Max's accident, is more difficult than the anniversary itself. Knowing that day is approaching, and getting past it year after year...I pray that it makes you stronger in your love and faith. I sit here tonight and think how, in just a moment, lives can be changed...and the rest of the world moves on. You are so incredible, Lisa. I just cant even tell you how much admiration I have for you. Your strength, your honesty, your humor, your unconditional love for your boys...you are truely remarkable. I pray for you to have continued strength, the continued love of your family, the blessing of good friends, the health of your family and peace and gentleness in your heart. Where I may have become bitter, you have shown humility, honesty, and love. You are a blessing to so many...so many of who you many never come to know.

, - Tuesday, September 21, 2004 9:42 PM CDT

I always love to see new pictures. Max looks great as usual! I think the poodle dog is running through some water ...that's why you can't see his legs LOL

Chris <chris@hugsfoundation.org>
Toledo, - Sunday, September 19, 2004 3:45 PM CDT

God's Forgiveness:

When Jesus told us to pray for forgiveness of our debts as we forgive our own debtors, he knew who would be the one to pay the debt. As he would hang on the cross he would say, "It is finished"... the debt is paid!
There are some facts that will never change. One fact is that you are forgiven. If you are in Christ, when he sees you, your sins are covered.. he doesn't see them. He sees you better than you see yourself. And that is a glorious fact of your life.
God does not save us because of what we've done. Only a puny god could be bought with tithes. Only an egotistical god would be impressed with our pain. Only a temperamental god could be satisfied by sacrifices. Only a heartless god would sell salvation to the highest bidders. And only a great God does for his children what they can't do for themselves.
God's delight is received upon surrender, not awarded upon conquest. The first step to joy is a plea for help, an acknowledgment of moral destitution, an admission of inward paucity. Those who taste God's presence have declared spiritual bankruptcy and are aware of their spiritual crisis...Their pockets are empty. Their options are gone. They have long since stopped demanding justice; they are pleading for mercy.

(Max Lucado)

We have around us many people whose lives will tell us what faith means. So let us run the race that is before us and never give up. We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us back. Let us look only to Jesus, the One who began our faith and who makes it perfect. Hebrews 12:1-2A
pz
- Saturday, September 11, 2004 3:41 PM CDT

Thinking of your family.

- Friday, September 10, 2004 9:48 PM CDT

Hi Maxie!
The only thing I have today for you are tons of hugs in differnet shapes and forms!
Remember I believe in you!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Sunday, September 5, 2004 8:12 PM CDT

I am happy that the cast off business is done. I just wish he did not have to go through all this! Perhaps his pain and discomfort is not as intense as we imagine it would be. Perhaps God is bearing the most of it for him! I will pray for that! I can relate to a body being in one position for a long time and then having to move it.....I wake up every morning and work to get it moving again! Spencer's tummy troubles should be watched. Our world is such that even youngsters stress out and get ulcers! There is so much they do not talk about. Keep reading between the lines Lisa. Spencer too, lives in a special world and he is, from all I've heard a remarkable young man! Grandma Joanne called me while sitting in the car at MSU. It was a great chat....college, grandkids, family, Laurie & John's big day, diets or the lack thereof, and of course kolorabi's! She is so funny.....it made my day! School should settle in by next week. Daily life will too. Hang in there girl. You have my utmost respect.
Aunt Bev and Uncle Bob <bandbkulseth2@aol.com>
Mankato, - Sunday, September 5, 2004 2:51 PM CDT

Im so happy everything went so well yesturday.Spencer have a fun day at school today.lisa take alittle time to your self today.love you all
c.
- Wednesday, September 1, 2004 7:18 AM CDT

Hiya, just saying a hello, I have a few jokes for you today, this time about bears

Q: What do you get if you cross a skunk with a bear?
A: Winnie the Pooh!

Q: Why do bears have fur coats?
A: Because they'd look stupid in anoraks!

Lots of love and big…

Viks
viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Tuesday, August 31, 2004 9:22 PM CDT

Way to go Max!!

Spence have a good day at school tomorrow--I'll be thinking of you throughout the day and your Mom and you getting the schedule going in the a.m.

Jim--all set for the onslaught at your school?

Love to each of you!

Joanne/Gramma/Mom <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Tuesday, August 31, 2004 9:07 PM CDT

Thinking of your family today.

, - Tuesday, August 31, 2004 6:20 AM CDT

Max you will be in my thoughts today. I hope all goes quickly and painlessly for you. I hope your recovery will be a speedy one.Know that I love you.
c.
- Tuesday, August 31, 2004 6:14 AM CDT

love & hugs are sent your way!
Angel Toto <angeltoto_qol@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, August 26, 2004 12:32 AM CDT

Father, bless Spencer as the new school year draws near. Give him the beautiful gift of good friends. Bless his teachers and Jim, Lisa and Max...that this coming school year be filled with wonder for Spencer both at home and away from home. Bless his friendship with his brother. Bless Max and continue to heal him. Keep them in your care throughout this coming school year and always. In Jesus name, Amen.

, - Wednesday, August 25, 2004 6:17 AM CDT

Happy Birthday Lisa! Hope all your b-day wishes come true !!!
Julie Opheim <bohunkbbq@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, August 24, 2004 6:42 AM CDT

Love the swim goggles on Max! That sunset picture is the best I've seen in a long time. Praying for you guys.
Carol Novicky <cnovicky@charter.net>
- Sunday, August 22, 2004 6:06 AM CDT

Hey Lisa, check the picture of the sunset from your house.
Right above the light pole with all the gizmo's on it, I
see Mickey Mouse waving at you! But then it could be people my age see things all the time!
AuntBev <bandbkulseth2@aol.com>
- Wednesday, August 18, 2004 11:01 AM CDT

HELLO.....I have just spent over an hour reading the udates and scanning the guestbook! So much I have missed! I cannot tell you how my heart hurts for your family. I do not believe that God makes these things happen, but I do believe that He is with you throughout it all. It shows in the strength you portray in these updates and in your daily waking, living and resting. No human could endure without Him. I shall make every effort to never complain again! And I will postpone my hip surgery FOREVER! I especially liked the poem someone created for you(Eyes of Blue, Hair so Red). Another of God's angels among us. My thoughts have been of you so many times. My friend,(?),the computor, is seemingly working alright now. AOL sent me a disc to replace my whole program. I could not get up on the Web. In the install, my grandson deleted the old program out and I lost my whole address book. One by one I am retrieving! Looking forward to Maxwell's Space again, and keeping in touch.
Aunt Bev & Uncle Bob <bandbkulseth2@aol.com>
Mankato, - Wednesday, August 18, 2004 10:51 AM CDT

Im glad things seem to be going good for you.
sounds like you really have a busy day on the 31st.
I hope all goes well for you.thanks for the updates
I really do appreciate them.all my love
cg
- Monday, August 9, 2004 6:10 AM CDT

When God Shows Up

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart. Psalm 51:17

We are taught as kids to hate broken things. I can remember lots of stuff that broke when I was a kid. I can remember broken toys and the first time I broke my arm; I fell out of a tree. It swelled up and I had to have a cast on it. It was an awful thing. Then as we got older, it wasn’t so much something physically broken that hurt so much as it was emotional. It became “You broke your promise.” Or, “She broke my heart.”

We’ve learned to hate broken things. But hear this: that’s not the way God looks at it. God delights in brokenness because it is in our brokenness that He can begin to do in our lives all the things that He longs to do.

We see brokenness all through Scripture. From the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve broke fellowship with God yet God reached out in love and restored them. Job 16:12 said, “I was at ease, but He has broken me.” Even in the favorite Psalm 23 there is brokenness.

Many years ago, Philip Keller wrote a book called A Shepherd Looks at the Twenty-Third Psalm that talks about the real meaning of the verse, ‘He makes me lie down in green pastures.’ Keller says, “Every shepherd knows what that verse is talking about. You get one little lamb that is so stubborn and rebellious and you want to protect it and you want to care for it, but it won’t stay in the fold. It won’t stay in the green pastures. So the lamb runs away and the shepherd goes and gets the little lamb and brings it back again. And again the little lamb runs away. Again the loving shepherd goes and gets it and says, ‘You’re in danger out here. Come on back into the fold.’ Again the little lamb runs away and the shepherd goes and gets it and brings it back and puts it back in the fold.

“Every shepherd knows what has to be done,” Keller continues. “The shepherd pulls the little lamb up into its lap and takes its little tender leg and cracks it over his knee.” He says, “That’s the meaning of the verse that says, ‘He makes me lie down in green pastures.’” Sometimes God has to break us and allow things to be broken in our lives because it is then that we begin to see how desperately we need Him.”

Think about brokenness in the New Testament. Remember in Luke 7:27 when the lady came to Jesus with the alabaster flask and broke it and poured out the ointment on His head? Then there was the time when our Lord Himself gathered His followers around Him. Do you remember some of His final words? After He had blessed the bread and broke it, He said, “This is My body—broken for you.”

Have you ever been broken? Have you ever been at a place in your life where you had an ongoing attitude of genuine humility before God? If you have, then you’ve been broken. Brokenness says not just, “God, I need You,” but “God, You are all I need.” Brokenness is a desperation for Him.

Brokenness is empty-handedness before God. It has no-demands, and makes no-requests. Brokenness is falling into the embrace of your loving Father and finding Him to be enough. Brokenness is saying “no” to the clamoring voice of your flesh, “no” to the pride and self-confidence that has made you so restless and unhappy for so long and “yes” to the longing for God that is deep within every person’s soul. Almighty God has placed a longing for Himself deep down inside us. We try to fill it with so many things or we think that because we’ve received Christ as our Savior that that longing is filled. But Hebrews 10:22 says, “In light of the fact that we have come to know Him, let us now draw near.” It is the intimacy with Him that fills that void, not just a mere relationship.

“What should I be broken of?”
A lot of times we come to Christ with a stubborn, rebellious, “I-can-do-it” attitude. God has to break us of that. You ask, “What exactly has to be broken?” I’ll tell you—

My stubbornness. “I am going to do this my way.” You can fight with Him for a long time if you want to but if you are one of God’s children, that stubbornness is on its way out.
My pride. God hates pride in my heart and He hates it in yours. People who have been greatly used by God have come to grips with the need to dispense with all pride. How are you doing in this area?
My willfulness. “You can’t make me. You can’t tell me.” If those words have ever come from your lips, that’s willfulness and its gotta go. He is going to use whatever He must to get that out of our hearts and our lives. He hates it.
My independence. “I can make it without You, God.”

All of these attitudes keep God from showing up in our lives so these are the things He goes after. What specific tools does He use? Things like: Broken health, broken careers, broken dreams, broken relationships, broken promises, our broken hearts.

The purpose of brokenness is to bring me to the place once and for all where I see and embrace the sufficiency of God in all things. Brokenness is trying to get us to these attitudes:
“I can’t, Lord, but You can.”
“I am nothing, but You are everything.”
“I won’t, but You will.”
“I can’t, but You can.”

These are wonderful freeing words, but they do not come easily. They only come when we are broken—broken of our pride, our willfulness, our independence and stubbornness. The purpose of brokenness is to bring us to the point where we can say to God, “You are all I need.”

p
- Sunday, August 8, 2004 9:43 PM CDT

Hi Lisa, Jim, Spencer and Max!
Just to send you a rainbow of positive thoughtz your way!
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Sunday, August 8, 2004 9:27 PM CDT

Hi Lisa, Jim, Spencer and Max! I was thinking about you all and decided to leave some words in here. If there is only one thing I can wish for all of you today that will be love. And you have lots to share!!!!!!!!
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Thursday, August 5, 2004 9:34 PM CDT

Father, I ask You to bless my friends, relatives and
email buddies reading this right now. Show them a new
revelation of Your love and power. Holy Spirit,
I ask You to minister to their spirit at this very moment.
Where there is pain, give them Your peace and mercy.
Where there is self-doubt, release a renewed confidence
through Your grace. Bless their homes, families, finances,
their goings and their comings. In Jesus' precious name.
Amen.

thought I would share this prayer I received today in an email. (cg)
- Thursday, August 5, 2004 9:08 AM CDT

Dear Father, I thank you so very much for this morning and all the potential it holds with it. It is quiet and all the world is just starting. I thank you with the start of the day, for being with us, especially with Max and his family. Continue to be with them. I specifically ask for comfort for Max and that his healing will be steady and fast. Be with the caregivers. Give them the skill and knowledge necessary to care for him in the best possible way. Give Jim, Lisa, and Spencer your peace. Show them your love through the people they encounter. Allow them rest from the weariness, Father...for somedays, it must be too tough for most of us to even imagine. In Jesus' name. Amen.

, - Tuesday, August 3, 2004 6:20 AM CDT

I'm so glad things went well on your surgery Max. Lots of chocolate hugs to one of my favorite guys!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Monday, August 2, 2004 8:09 PM CDT

Hi Max, this is Grampa Jerry, thats a perttu snaszzy set of pajamas youve got on, I went to seeif I could get some but they only gave me a funny set of clothe PJ.s. I was in the Hospital the same time you were there for youre hip surgury. I got a little Pea non ya and a little water in my chest, hard to breathe, But you kno all about that, You are such a BIGGER Max. My dinner is here now and I need to go eat See Ya Later Grampa Jerry
Jerry <Jgosewisch@aol.com>
Maple Plain, - Friday, July 30, 2004 11:46 AM CDT

I am so glad that things went well. that is one big cast. you will be able to get alot of names and drawings on that.you are such a handsome young man.see you soon and know that I love you so much and you will continue to be in my thoughts.
Carrie
- Tuesday, July 27, 2004 6:36 AM CDT

Hey Max!
Just passing by to wish you a rainbow of positive thoughts your way! You are my hero!
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Monday, July 26, 2004 8:59 PM CDT

Hey Lisa, Haven't touched base in a while, but please know that you and your family are often in my thoughts and prayers. Glad Max's surgery went well. That big cast is sure something. Through all this, the ups and downs, you always come out fighting for your son and your family. The strength and committment of you and Jim and Spencer and Max to each other and your family is just astounding. You are a treasure. *big hug*... gotta get back to work. I'll write again soon.... and yep... He does make some beautiful sunsets. :)
Julie Opheim <bohunkbbq@hotmail.com>
- Monday, July 26, 2004 6:48 AM CDT

Jim, Lisa, Spencer and Max, Just to let you know my thoughts and prayers have been constantly with you and for all of you the past few days. My arms reach out to hold you with love. We can only live for the moment, so keep your mind focused on Jesus so you can truly feel his arms around you giving you peace and comfort each and every moment of the day. I love you all.
Grandma Karen
- Saturday, July 24, 2004 8:21 AM CDT

We were praying for all of you! How is Max doing today? Hang in there, Jim, Lisa, Spence and Max....
Patti <barthpl2002@yahoo.com>
- Friday, July 23, 2004 8:14 AM CDT

For I know the plans I have for you, delcares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

Life is a process. To God process isn't a means to an end; it is the goal. Whatever sends us running to him, makes us embrace him, causes us to depend on him, is the best good in our lives.

We have been at times, so full of gratitude and awe that we haven't been able to do anything else but sing. At other times, we haven't been able to see how God could possibly be there in the dark circumstances of life, yet we have learned that he was always in all things up to something good in our lives. That "good" is always eternal good.
Some of life's circumstances seem senseless, and others too painful to bear. But when we base our confidence on a perspective broader than this world's view, we can trust that what our soverign God is working to accomplish is not the servant of this world's circumstances; rather this world's circumstances are always being made the servant of His purposes.

p
- Thursday, July 22, 2004 3:43 PM CDT

Heavenly Father, you are so amazing and we praise you for all your gifts and blessings you give us...those we easily see and those we may never see. Today, we thank you especially for Max and for his family. We ask that you be with Max and give him a successful surgery. Be with the doctors and nurses and all those who will care for him. Give him a comfortable recovery, free of any complications. Provide the knowledge and skill to those around him to care for him in the best possible way. Continue to be with him in the weeks to come during his recovery. Be also with Jim and Lisa as they wait while Max is in surgery. As they care for him, please care for them. Provide them with comfort, peace, and rest and help them to know what caring and loving parents they are. Be with Spencer as he sorts through all this. Bless his friendship with his brother now and for always...protect this bond and nuture it. We thank you for the countless time we come to you, for this, and for so very many things, so undeserving. We thank you for always staying with us, even when we turn away. In Jesus'name. Amen.

, - Thursday, July 22, 2004 7:45 AM CDT

Prayers for tomorrow. Remember my heart is with you every step of the way.
Mom
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Wednesday, July 21, 2004 9:30 AM CDT

Lisa-I know that this is a big week for you and the rest of your family.I want you to know that Red is in my thoughts, as well as the rest of your family are also.I pray that God will be able to give you strenght,comfort and peace to bring you all through this.I pray that all will go well.all my love
Carrie
- Tuesday, July 20, 2004 7:39 AM CDT

Hi Sweetie !
Just stopping in from your Quilts Of Love Family with lots of angel (((hugs))) and prayers..
All the angels have you in their hearts, thoughts and prayers always..

Blessings to you and your family
Angel Chris
Quilts of Love
Chris <wardsweb@earthlink.net>
Los Angeles, CA USA - Monday, July 19, 2004 4:55 PM CDT

Lisa...I hope someday you will be able to just get away alone for a bit to restore your body, mind and spirit. You seem to be the strength of your family; sometimes that strength needs to be taken care of too. Find a place...a remote place...to just get away. Rest is needed sometimes to replenish all that is drained away by life. Thinking of you so very often and remembering Max and you guys in my prayers.

, - Friday, July 16, 2004 6:48 AM CDT

Hi Max and Lisa!
I will be praying for you on the day of your surgery :-)
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Sunday, July 11, 2004 7:16 PM CDT

Why do bears have fur coats ?
Because they'd look stupid in anoraks !

What do you call a big white bear with a hole in his middle ?
A polo bear !

Love Post Pals
viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Friday, July 9, 2004 7:02 PM CDT

Hello All!!!! Glad to hear that Max has been doing well. Thanks for putting up more new pictures. That camera or the photographer really does a good job! Will Max's surgery be at Gillette? If so, we will get to see him in person!
Ann O'Brien <Oducks@msn.com>
Blaine, MO - Wednesday, July 7, 2004 3:04 PM CDT

What a great picture of Maxwell and Grandpa Jerry!! Thanks for sharing it with all of us.
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.co0m>
- Monday, July 5, 2004 9:59 PM CDT

Happy 4th of July to all of you! I hope the fireworks shine in your hearts now and always
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Sunday, July 4, 2004 8:26 PM CDT

Lisa, It was so nice to read of Max's good days. I know how very much they mean to you and I hope so that they contimue.
Edna
- Friday, July 2, 2004 10:57 PM CDT

I hope you all have a nice holiday weekend.
have lots of fun and enjoy yourselves.
hopefully the weather will cooperate.
You all will remain in my thoughts....
love you all
carrie
- Friday, July 2, 2004 7:36 AM CDT

You are such a good mom!

, - Thursday, July 1, 2004 10:19 PM CDT

Hi Max...
Just stopping by to send some love and hugs tonight...
Kim, Karl and Kody Bear

~KODYS STORY~ <kodysmom1995@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, June 27, 2004 8:58 PM CDT

Jim, Lisa, Spencer, and Max, This life is certainly full of pain and challenges, but with love for each other and the love of God in our hearts we find the courage and strength to go on each and every day. This has been a tough week again, for us and I can see, for you also. Jim, thank you so much for coming over on Tuesday to be with your Dad. He has a hard time expressing thanks and gratitude, but please know that it meant more than you can imagine. My mom had a list of hymns that she wanted at her funeral and "Heaven Is My Home" was one we sang. It is a beautiful song. Thanks for sharing the words here. My thoughts and prayers go with each of you. I love you all.

Grandma Karen
- Saturday, June 26, 2004 5:27 PM CDT

I’m But a Stranger Here
By: Thomas R. Taylor

I’m but a stranger here,
Heaven is my home;
Earth is a desert drear,
Heaven is my home;
Danger and sorrow stand
Round me on every hand;
Heaven is my fatherland,
Heaven is my home.

What though the tempest rage,
Heaven is my home;
Short is my pilgrimage,
Heaven is my home;
And time’s wintry blast
Soon shall be over past;
I shall reach home at last,
Heaven is my home.

Therefore I murmur not,
Heaven is my home;
Whatever my earthly lot,
Heaven is my home;
And I shall surely stand
There at my Lord’s right hand.
Heaven is my fatherland,
Heaven is my home.

Hymn # 515
Lutheran Worship
Author: Arthur S. Sullivan
Tune: Heaven Is My Home
1st Published in: 1836

p
- Wednesday, June 23, 2004 11:31 PM CDT

Can't you hear me screaming-- silent, begging pleas!...
Father, don't you see me, I am broken to my knees!
I hurt so very deeply, how can this really be?...
Oh God, take this cup... my reality.
I wake from my slumber and pray it be a dream
I shutter and cry out-- another silent scream...
Please! I pray to you...and don't you hear my friends?...
They all come to you begging to help me again and again.
I do not understand! It is so very wild...
WHY did this tragic event, happen to MY child?
He is my flesh and blood, the one I carried in my womb...
It amazes me that You let your only Son be carried to the tomb!
Help me dear Father, be strong and filled with You...
it is my only strength to know, that You feel all this pain too.
My little boy needs me..and, oh, God I need him so...
help me talk to him about You, so he will come to know...
that though this anguish may never be explained,
Father God is always with us...through all the bitter pain.
Your Word tells us that all is for Your reason,
But oh, dear God, my life is in a difficult season.
Sometimes, I just can't bear, one more day like this,
so stay through the anger...the pain...the miss.

I hurt for you Lisa, and will cry out a silent scream for God to bring you peace.

- Wednesday, June 23, 2004 10:06 PM CDT

Lisa,

Thankyou for your thoughts and words. I guess it's all about love and without that life would be empty for sure. So even when those hard times come,(and they will when you love) they are only hard because you (me) were open to care about others in this world. I've been blessed to have dear ones like you in my life.

Love you!
Joanne
Joanne <grammacongo @aaol.com>
- Wednesday, June 23, 2004 9:01 AM CDT

About longing for Heaven:

The only ultimate disaster that can befall us, I have come to realize, is to feel ourselves to be home on earth.
As long as we are aliens, we cannot forget our true homeland.

Unhappiness on earth cultivates a hunger for heaven.
By gracing us with a deep dissatisfaction, God holds our
attention. The only tragedy, then, is to be satisfied
prematurely. To settle for earth. To be content in a strange land.

We are not happy here because we are not at HOME here. We are not happy here because we are not SUPPOSED to be happy here. We are like foreigners and strangers in this world. (1Peter 2:11).

And you will never be COMPLETELY happy on earth simply because you were not made for earth. Oh, you will have moments of joy. You will catch glimpses of light. You will know moments or even days of peace. But they simply do not compare with the HAPPINESS that lies ahead.
(Max Lucado - When God Whispers Your Name)

(I know I have put this in here before, but it is my favorite, because I believe it is so very true. Sometimes we need to be reminded of these facts, when we get caught up in our daily lives and the sadness that we all experience, (some more than others). It is just so comforting to be reminded that hey, we don't stay here forever, and as Christians, we will all see each other again in PERFECT form. I don't know about you, but it makes me smile to think about it!)

THERE ARE MANY ROOMS IN MY FATHER'S HOUSE; I WOULD NOT TELL YOU THIS IF IT WERE NOT TRUE. I AM GOING THERE TO PREPARE A PLACE FOR YOU. AFTER I GO AND PREPARE A PLACE FOR YOU, I WILL COME BACK AND TAKE YOU TO BE WITH ME SO THAT YOU MAY BE WHERE I AM. John 14:2-3
pz
- Wednesday, June 23, 2004 0:29 AM CDT

Lisa,
You are such a good Mommy.
You are a Wonderful Testament of a Mothers Love.
I also agree that max has lots to show us.
You and Your family continue to be in
my thoughts everyday.
All My Love
Carrie
- Monday, June 21, 2004 6:53 AM CDT

Your family is in my thoughts.

, - Thursday, June 17, 2004 11:20 PM CDT

Your family is in my thoughts.

, - Thursday, June 17, 2004 11:19 PM CDT

Hi Lisa and Max!
Just a little note to let you know I'm thinking about you and sending my best poisitve vibes your way.You are such a bunch of troopers!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Wednesday, June 16, 2004 9:04 PM CDT

Do not worry about anything but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks.
And God's peace, which is so great, we cannot understand it, will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus....I have learned to be satisfied with the things I have and with everything that happens. I know how to live when I am poor and I know how to live when I have plenty.
I have learned the secret of being happy at any time in everything that happens. I can do ALL things through Christ, because HE strengthens me. Phil. 4:6-7, 11-13
pz
- Tuesday, June 15, 2004 5:12 PM CDT

Hello Lisa and family. I don't know that I've ever signed your guest book but I know I have visited your page several times when checking up on the kiddos on share the love. Anyway, wanted to stop by and let you know that I am hoping things go well during the upcoming surgery and that the neurologist is able to find something that will help with Max's seizures. Hope you all have a good week.
Jennifer <charay913@yahoo.com>
Wichita Falls, Texas - Monday, June 14, 2004 9:25 PM CDT

We have around us many people whose lives tell us
what faith means.
So let us run the race that is before us and never
give up.
We should remove from our lives anything that would
get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us
back.
Let us look only to Jesus, the One who began our
faith and who makes it perfect. Hebrews 12:1-2

We have troubles all around us, but we are not defeated.
We do not know what to do, but we do not give up the hope of living. We are persecuted, but God does not leave us.
We are hurt but not destroyed. So we do not give up.
Our physical body is becoming older and weaker, but our
spirit inside is made new every day. We have small
troubles for awhile, but they are helping us gain an eternal glory that is much greater than the troubles.
We set our eyes not on what we see, but on what we cannot see. 2 Cor.4:8-9, 16-18
pz
- Sunday, June 13, 2004 8:23 PM CDT

Never underestimate the ponderings of a Christian parent. Never underestimate the power that comes when a parent pleads with God on behalf of a child. Who knows how many prayers are being answered right now because of the faithful ponderings of a parent ten or twenty years ago? God listens to thoughtful parents. Praying for our children is a noble task. If what we are doing, in this fast-paced society, is taking us away from prayer time for our children, we're doing too much. There is nothing more special, more precious than time that a parent spends struggling and pondering with God on behalf of a child.
(Max Lucado)

God's blessings are dispensed according to the riches of his grace, not according to the depth of our faith. "If we are not faithful, he will still be faithful, because he cannot be false to himself". (2 Tim. 2:13)
Why is that important? So you don't get cynical. Look around, are there not more mouths than bread, more wounds than physicians, more who need the truth and those who tell it?
So what do we do? Throw up our hands? No, we don't give up, we LOOK up, we trust, and believe. Our optimism is not hollow. Christ has proven worthy. He never fails.

Lord, answer me because your love is so good.
Because of your great kindness, turn to me.
Do not hide from me, your servant.
I am in trouble. Hurry to help me.
Come near and save me.
Rescue from mine enemies. Psalm 69:16-18

I have good plans for you.
Not plans to hurt you.
I will give you hope and a good future.
Then you will call my name.
You will come to me and pray.
I will listen to you.
You will search for me.
When you search with all of your heart,
you will find me. Jeremiah 29: 11-13

God is God, He knows what he is doing, when you can't trace his hand, trust His heart.

PZ
MP, - Wednesday, June 9, 2004 11:19 PM CDT

I'm praying for and loving you all. I know you and Jim will work together on this surgery stuff for Max's benefit and guess what Spence--You and Ralph and I will get to eat out together some more on those busy days.

Love you!
Mom-Gramma <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Wednesday, June 9, 2004 9:04 AM CDT

Hi Max...Just stopping by from your Quilts of Love family to say hi and leave some Hugs and Love..

Carolyn <carolyn@quiltsoflove.com>
- Monday, June 7, 2004 0:33 AM CDT

Jim, Lisa, Spencer, and Max. Just wanted to let you know I was thinking about you. What a beatuiful piece of poetry. I cried. Take care and I love you all.
Grandma Karen
- Sunday, June 6, 2004 6:38 AM CDT

The poem brought tears to my eyes.......
Thinking about you always. Love, Patti.
Patti <barthpl2002@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, June 3, 2004 9:44 AM CDT

HI Lisa! This is Molley (Julie Opheim's sister). Wanted you to know that I was thinking about you and wondering about Max.
Molley Bruce <molley@xmaslake.com>
- Wednesday, June 2, 2004 8:48 AM CDT

Hi Lisa, Jim, Spencer and Max!
Today I just want to say I'm sending you my best positive thoughts and a big cyberhug!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Tuesday, June 1, 2004 8:05 PM CDT

Thankyou, whoever you are, for your notes and the beautiful poem in this guestbook--
Love to you

Max's gramma
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Tuesday, June 1, 2004 8:32 AM CDT

Lisa and Max
Eyes so blue
hair so red
skin so soft...
against a mommy's head
A mom so tender
a boy so strong
A journey together...
a journey so long
A beautiful mom and her sweet little Red...
together they travel down a path they sometimes dread
Never have I seen such love and compassion
fierce protection; a gift and a passion
Gentle touches and kisses and mommy hugs too
a gift from above, God gave Max to you
You love him and smooch him and laugh through the tears...
and humbly write it all down here; your worries, joys and fears
Do you know that's how God feels about you?
His sweet little Lisa, sometimes so blue
He wishes to hold you and to hug and to kiss...
to take away all the pain and the miss
You are His child, like Max is to you...
so rest in His love mommy..
God is watching over you two.

, - Tuesday, June 1, 2004 0:43 AM CDT

Lisa and Max
Eyes so blue,
hair so red,
skin so soft...
against a mommy's head
A mom so tender
a boy so strong
a journey together...
a journey so long
A beautiful mom and her sweet littel Red
together they travel down a path they sometimes dread
Never have I seen such love and compassion,
fierce protection; a gift and a passion
Gentle touches and kisses and mommy hugs too...
a gift from above, God gave Max to you
You love him and smooch him and laugh through the tears...
and you humbly write it all here; your worries, joys and fears
Do you know that's how God feels about you?
His sweet little Lisa, sometimes so blue..
He wishes to hold and to kiss...
to take away all the pain and the miss
You are His child, like Max is to you...
so rest in His love mommy,
God is watching over you two.

, - Tuesday, June 1, 2004 0:29 AM CDT

Hey Max!
I couldn't let the day go by without wishing you have a great day!
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Sunday, May 30, 2004 7:45 PM CDT

Hiya, a few jokes to try and make you smile this weekend.

What are prehistoric monsters called when they sleep?
A dinosnore!

What do elves do after school?
Gnomework

Where do tadpoles change?
In a croakroom!

Love Viks on behalf of everyone at Post Pals

viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Sunday, May 30, 2004 10:57 AM CDT

Hey Max!
You have the most beautiful smile I have ever seen!!!!!!

Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Saturday, May 29, 2004 7:22 PM CDT

Hi everyone!!!!! Thanks for all the nice stuff you wrote about me :o)
It was Laurie who found Michael's website and e-mailed me way back after Max had his accident. I'm so glad we finally got to meet. You all are such nice people and it was great talking with you all and hanging out before walking back to the American Occupational Therapy Association Conference. (And if anyone would like to read my research paper I'd be happy to send it to them).
And sure, you can post pictures of me on Max's site if you really want to LOL.

Give Max a big cuddle for me. He LOOKS great!!!!!!!

God bless
Chris Hipsher
Toledo, OH - Monday, May 24, 2004 11:38 PM CDT

Hello Lisa, Jim Spencer and Max! Just to let you know you all are in my thoughts and I'm sending you the biggest cyberchocolate hug ever!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Monday, May 24, 2004 9:03 PM CDT

Angel Toto <pat_totoofoz@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, May 22, 2004 11:05 AM CDT

Hello, I thought I would stop by to leave some jokes for you, I hope they make you smile.

Love Viks and Everyone at Post Pals

Q: How do you know that cats are sensitive creatures?
A: They never cry over spilt milk!

Q: What do you get if you cross a cat and a gorilla?
A: An animal that puts you out a night!

viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Saturday, May 22, 2004 10:26 AM CDT

Hi Lisa,I love the new pictures....
you and max look so much alike =)
looks like you were having a great day.
I'm happy for you.
You and your family are
always in my thoughts
c.
- Wednesday, May 19, 2004 6:37 AM CDT

"Go back and report to John what you hear and see: "The blind receive sight, the lame walk...and the good news is preached to the poor."

This was Jesus'answer to John's agonized query from the dungeon of doubt: "Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?"

We don't know how John received Jesus' message but we can imagine. I like to think of a slight smile coming over his lips as he heard what his Master said. For now he understood. It wasn't that Jesus was silent; it was that John had been listening for the wrong answer. John had been listening for an answer to his earthly problems, while Jesus was busy resolving his heavenly ones.

That's worth remembering the next time you hear the silence of God.
The Applaus of Heaven by Max Lucado...

Ask and God will give to you, Search and you will find, Knock, and the door will open for you. Yes, everyone who asks will receive. Everyone who searches will find, and everyone who knocks will have the door opened. Matt.7:7-8
pz
- Tuesday, May 18, 2004 3:58 PM CDT

Lisa~ Thinking of you and your family...sending good thoughts your way. :)

, - Monday, May 17, 2004 6:56 AM CDT

Lisa, you are a superwoman!!!!!!!! So MAx, you are a superkid
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Sunday, May 16, 2004 3:22 PM CDT

Happy Anniversary and Happy Mothers Day !!! Sorry I'm late!! I like the new pictures again!! Thanks for keeping us updated.
The O'Brien's <Oducks@msn.com>
Blaine, MN - Thursday, May 13, 2004 9:04 AM CDT

Lisa~ What a beautiful picture of a mom's love for her boy! You are such a pretty momma!

, - Thursday, May 13, 2004 7:11 AM CDT

Lisa~
What a perfect picture of a mother's love for her boy! You are a beautiful mom!

, - Thursday, May 13, 2004 6:23 AM CDT

Hi Lisa! Happy belated Mother's Day. Molley timed her delivery to arrive just so she could celebrate Mother's day with her own new little bundle of joy. Her son, Dane was born May 9th about 10:30 a.m. She'll be a good mom...even though she was a bother at times as a little sister... especially when we wanted to go swimming or riding our bikes. But I am keeping her around. :) Just wanted you to know that I was thinking about you, Jim and the boys.
Julie Opheim (new auntie for the 4th time !!) <bohunkbbq@hotmail.com>
- Monday, May 10, 2004 12:14 AM CDT

Happy Mother's Day to a beautiful and giving mommy!

, - Sunday, May 9, 2004 8:19 AM CDT

Mothers Day Prayer

I Pray for you that on this special Mothers day,
God fills your heart in a truley beautiful way.
And may, He in His reach from heaven above,
Flow the wonderful family spirit, of His love.
I pray He grant, truley sweet and Angelic care,
That you may know, He is, always there.
I pray within God's great vast Love for you
In life, daily onward, In all that you may do,
You feel His love, His strength, His peace,
This Mothers Day blesses a spiritual release.

Have a Blessed Mothers Day

Chris Ullrich - Bella's Grammy <c_ullrich@msn.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/isabellaledesma >
- Saturday, May 8, 2004 10:03 PM CDT

Hi Max,

I am here at the hospital with your Grandpa Jerry. We just wanted to say hello and let you know Grandpa is doing well. We just came back from a walk. You have a good day.
Beth Kalb <kjbktmmmam@aol.com>
Waconia, , MN USA - Friday, May 7, 2004 2:47 PM CDT

Hello,
Island Princess here from Quilts Of Love to check in on you and leave you with lots of love and hugs.

Iskabd Princess <islandprincess@quiltsoflove.com>
- Friday, May 7, 2004 12:34 AM CDT

Thinking of you!

, - Wednesday, May 5, 2004 2:38 PM CDT

Hi Max this is grampa Jerry, Im in the hospital got a little Pneumonia, willcome see you when I get out Love you
Grampa Jerry <Jgosewisch@aol.com>
- Tuesday, May 4, 2004 8:48 PM CDT

All of Max's progress is probably spring fever going on with him, too! I hope it goes better with Toby next time. Congratulations on your 13th anniversary, Jim and Lisa...that's a feat that few make any more. Here's to 13 more, and 13 more, and so on, and so on! Can't wait to see you more now that the weather is improving, and it's dangerously close to convertible time. Tell Jim he's got two months to get his boat ready for the fishing contest - LOL. Take care - thanks for updating us every week, Lisa!
Patti <barthpl2002@yahoo.com>
Howard Lake, MN - Monday, May 3, 2004 11:27 AM CDT

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to Jim and Lisa!!! (5/4/91) I am so thankful for your togetherness!!

Love
Mom
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Monday, May 3, 2004 8:34 AM CDT

It is so exciting to read all the good news.
It is so encouraging.Max is lucky to have all
three of you.have a good week.
lots of love

c.
- Monday, May 3, 2004 6:11 AM CDT

Something struck me today ( well alot of things did ) but at our confirmation service in church today, our pastor was talking about how Christ died for us and being baptized we have been made Christians and he will always be there for us. He said the only way he will leave us is if we pry his hands off of us. I thought that was a pretty good way to look at it. We always think God comes and goes, but it is US that come and go. God is always faithful and will not leave us or forsake us... and you are right, prayer changes things and it is up to us to just take a look every day at what He does do for us and give us.
PZ
- Monday, May 3, 2004 0:00 AM CDT

Max, reading your progress sure brings a bright sun ray to my cloudiest days!!!! You are truly a little hero!

Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Wednesday, April 28, 2004 9:42 PM CDT

Courage and Fear -

Those two attributes are strange bedmates. It would seem impossible to experience both of them at the same time; yet I believe that's the challenge of the Christian life. Fear tells us that life is unpredictable, anything can happen, but courage replies quietly, "Yes, but God is in control."

If we will stop for a moment during our cluttered lives to reflect, we will realize this life is not a rehearsal. This is it. How will we choose to live?

I want to live a passionate life. I want to life a life that recognizes the fears but moves out with courage. I want to show the world the eternal mystery of what God can do through a miserable sinner sold out to him. Why would I settle for anything less? Life is tough, but God is faithful! by Sheila Walsh - Joy for the Woman's Soul

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

For a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith-of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire-may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:6-7
pz
- Monday, April 26, 2004 0:32 AM CDT

Lisa~ Your update was beautiful...and tho I have only been around you a few times, it was so evident during those times what love and DEVOTION you have for your boys. I will earnestly pray for you to no longer carry around any guilt. How that must weigh on you at times. My goodness, what a capacity you have for love and an enduring strength that humbles must of us. You have the beauty of a mommy so in-love with her children--and you let that love shine here for all of us to read. Thank you, for tho you may not know it, you set a wonderful example of a self-less kind of love that our Father has for us. He forgives you! Max forgives you!...and someday, I hope I will read of your forgiveness of yourself! For you are indeed a wonderful gift to Max (and Spencer!), sent just for them from our Father. He designed YOU, exactly as you are...to be a wonderful living example of strength and love. I hope and will so pray you find that peace within you. That lady sees what so many of us see, and we just don't say, I guess. You are a WONDERFUL mommy!

, - Sunday, April 25, 2004 8:43 PM CDT

So happy to read the new update with all the good news!!! Thanks for putting up new pictures again too, They're SO CUTE!!!
Ann O'Brien <Oducks@msn.com>
Blaine, MN - Friday, April 23, 2004 9:50 AM CDT

I'm feelin' mighty good with all those upbeat reports about Maxwell and the really good pictures (that digital camera was a good investment). With the sun shining too , this Gramma is feeling peaceful and content. Let's all enjpy this up time---just soak it in! YOU are a good Mom ,Lisa and I'm so glad that lady told you so! I love you all, Spencer, Max, Lisa and Jim!
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Thursday, April 22, 2004 5:32 PM CDT

Good evening! Thinking of you guys tonight and sending some prayers your way.

, - Monday, April 19, 2004 8:52 PM CDT

Prayer -

Prayer is the recognition that if God had not engaged himself in our problems, we would still be lost in the blackness. It is by his mercy that we have been lifted up. Prayer is that whole process that reminds us of who God is and who we are.

I believe there's great power in prayer. I believe that God heals the wounded, and that he can raise the dead. But I don't believe we tell God what to do and when to do it.

God knows that we, with our limited vision, don't even know that for which we should pray. When we entrust our requests to him, we trust him to honor our prayers with holy judgment.

(from Walking with the Savior - Max Lucado)

Faith -

When God doesn't do what we want, it's not easy. Never has been. Never will be. But faith is the conviction that God knows more than we do about this life and he will get us through it.

Remember, disappointment is caused by unmet expectations. Disappointment is cured by revamped expectations.

Next time you're disappointment, don't panic. Don't give up. Just be patient and let God remind you he's still in control. It ain't over till it's over.

(from He Still Moves Stones - Max Lucado)

The Lord says "My thoughts are not like your thoughts.
Your ways are not like my ways.
Just as the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways and my
thoughts higher than your thoughts.
So you will go out with joy and be led out in peace.
Isaiah 55:8, 12
pz
- Wednesday, April 14, 2004 4:02 PM CDT

Happy Easter Red,
We missed you yesturday at
grandma congo's.I like the
new mickey mouse hat.you look
like a wizard.have a good week
sending you all my love and kisses

Carrie
- Monday, April 12, 2004 6:44 AM CDT

Just dropped by to let you know we're thinking of you and HAPPY EASTER!!! I just LOVE the new pictures too!!! They're so bright and clear. They're GREAT!!!!
The O'Brien's <Oducks@msn.com>
Blaine, MN - Sunday, April 11, 2004 11:18 PM CDT

Happy Easter Max. Lisa, Spencer and Jim! Lots of love your way!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Sunday, April 11, 2004 8:53 PM CDT

Happy Easter Love Everyone at Post Pals

viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Saturday, April 10, 2004 1:30 PM CDT

Welcome back to MN - I feel the same as you, Lisa! A place of nature seems more like a vacation than the hustle and bustle of an amusement park. Laurie always teaches us a new "game" to play, too! The mountains are the best...
If you are in a bind and want to borrow a lift van, Cory (my brother)and Cathy in Rockford have one. I know Jack will be going to church Easter morning, but then we're all going over there, so it may be available later in the day. Let me know if you get in a pinch and I'll hook the two of you up! Say Hi to Jim, Spence, and Max - Have a great Easter.......Love, Patti.
Patti Barth <barthpl2002@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, April 7, 2004 2:15 PM CDT

Thinking of you and your family.

, - Wednesday, April 7, 2004 6:19 AM CDT

Welcome Home! I'm so glad you arrived back safely!!

Can't wait to see the pictures.

Love,
Mom/Gramma
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Sunday, April 4, 2004 3:12 PM CDT

Hope your vacation is wonderful!

, - Thursday, April 1, 2004 8:46 AM CST

Happy belated birthday! Lots of love and chocolate hugs for you all!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Saturday, March 27, 2004 9:53 PM CST

Happy Belated Birthday
Red
Sorry we missed you.sounds like
you had a really nice party.and got
some really cool stuff.
you are always in my thoughts and prayers
carrie
- Wednesday, March 24, 2004 6:40 AM CST

Maxie,
I may be prejudiced, but you are definitely cuter than cute!

Love,
Gramma
gramma <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Tuesday, March 23, 2004 10:43 AM CST

Hi Sweetie !

A happy belated b day to you
sending lots of late b day ((hugs))

Your in our hearts prayers and thoughts
always at Quilts Of Love

Blessings to you and your family

Angel Chris
Quilts Of Love
Chris <wardsweb@earthlink.net>
Los Angeles , CA USA - Tuesday, March 23, 2004 0:01 AM CST

Happy 7th Birthday Max!!!!!!!!!

Dana Sanford <pooh_n_tigger2002@yahoo.com>
Jackson, MI - Saturday, March 20, 2004 8:42 PM CST

HAPPY #7 MAX!

Hope you have a happy birthday today :)

Love
Chris Hipsher
TOledo, OH - Saturday, March 20, 2004 6:12 PM CST

And if Gramma could sing she would!! Happy Birthday dear Maxwell!! I love you so so much!!! I will hug and kiss you tomorrow at your BIGGER birthday party. See you soon!

Lots of Love
Gramma

Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Saturday, March 20, 2004 4:57 PM CST

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAX!!!!!! HAVE A GREAT DAY!!!
The O'Brien's <Oducks@msn.com>
Blaine, MN - Saturday, March 20, 2004 2:44 PM CST

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAREST MAXWELL,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!!!!!!!!

~*~*~*Wishing you the best birthday EVER!*~*~*~

Sending lots and lots of BIG 'Happy Birthday' hugs your way!!!

~*~*~*Samantha Therese*~*~*~

Mrs. Shannon <humphity319@aol.com>
#24 - Saturday, March 20, 2004 10:47 AM CST

Lisa... Thank you for continuing to share your heart's thoughts. Do you have any idea how courageous you are? You are an inspiration to so many of us.

- Wednesday, March 17, 2004 6:11 AM CST

Lisa,

I am sitting here trying to come up with some wise and witty ways for you to "pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on keepin' on" but I think... no I know... you will do just that.

Enjoy your vacation, bring Max a sea shell, have that hot brandy someone mentioned, and enjoy time with Spencer and Jim. (Oh and have one of those fruity drinks with umbrella's for me!)

When you get back, we will get the lunch / coffee / happy hour / dinner date (maybe all at once !!!) setup so we can catch up.

*BIG HUG*
Julie
Julie Opheim <bohunkbbq@hotmail.com>
Minnetonka, MN - Tuesday, March 16, 2004 8:20 AM CST

I couldn't let this day go by without sending you all lots of chocolate hugs!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Monday, March 15, 2004 8:44 PM CST

What a beautiful and amazing poem.
It says so much.and leaves you with
so much.thanks for sharing it.
Red,lisa,spencer,jim you are always in
my thoughts.
love to you all
carrie
- Monday, March 15, 2004 12:13 AM CST

Hello, Some jokes for you today,

What's a teddy bears favourite pasta ?
Tagliateddy !
Why shouldn't you take a bear to the zoo ?
Because they'd rather go to the cinema !
What is a bear's favourite drink ?
Koka-Koala !

Love Viks

viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Monday, March 15, 2004 6:39 AM CST

Love the picture!!! And what a beautiful poem!! Trust the Lord to have someone send it to all of us who love Maxwell and his family. It tugs the heart and lifts the spirit. Speaking of spirit...Lisa. You owe yourself a holiday! I would also recommend any good book (preferrably drama and horror)and a hot brandy! Maybe two! A massage would do nicely also! Pamper yourself once in awhile and girl, never, never, never feel guilty about it! You are nearly a Mother Teresa in my book!
Aunt Bev <bandbkulseth@aol.com>
Mankato, - Sunday, March 14, 2004 7:16 PM CST

Carol,
How I remember that night that the angels came and held Max up to the Father and he lived. You were there too-bless you for sharing that night and the poem now.
With Love,
Joanne
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Saturday, March 13, 2004 8:45 PM CST

Your strength is so incredible! I will keep the prayers comin your way.

- Friday, March 12, 2004 6:31 PM CST

Lisa,
You must've really been down this past week 'cuz you didn't even call to tell me about it! My dear heart, I'll just pray every every day and night for you. I know there will always be times like that, crying has to, just has to be done. I am looking forward to the needed vacation for you three and will go to love up Max when you are gone. We know he is in a safe and familiar environment and even gets loved up by the nurses, but I'll go just in case that family hugging and kissing is missed. Remember again I love you so much!
Joanne
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Friday, March 12, 2004 1:24 PM CST

I saw this poem on another site and thought of Max. Hope you enjoy it.

An Angel Is Born
author unknown

On the night that you were sick
The angels came to pray
When something started going wrong
One of them did say

"We must go get the Father
And tell Him about this.
Things are not going well.
Something is amiss."

When the Lord came and saw
All the angels crying,
He looked down from the sky above
And saw a child was dying.

An angel said, "Let's bring him Home."
The Lord said, "He will stay,
Because he has much to do
Before he comes our way."

"Besides," the Lord said and sighed,
"The parents want a son."
The angel whispered to the Lord,
"But this is not the one."

"He's not the one they longed for,
This much I know is true.
But this child will teach them much.
In time they'll see it too."

"But Father," said the angel now,
"I don't see how he can.
"This child will never walk or talk.
I do not understand."

"Watch and you shall see,"
To the angel he did say
"Though this child will speak no words
He will have much to say."

"Their parent hearts will hear his voice
And the wisdom he will share
Will teach them things about themselves
That even they were not aware."

"Though there are many peaks and valleys
On their journey just ahead
They will not despair
They'll draw their strength from him instead.

"Because of all they'll learn from him
They'll help to bridge the distance
Between the world of special needs
And try to make a difference."

The angel thought on this awhile
Then said, "This child means much.
Like the pebble in the pond,
Many lives this child will touch."

"The world needs special children,
These parents needs this son."
The angel smiled and said,
"You are right, he is the one."

The angel held him upwards,
as that night arrived,
The Father reached down and touched the child,
And the son survived.
Carol
- Friday, March 12, 2004 1:22 PM CST

Love the beautiful picture. Those testing results are so exciting. Thanks for keeping this journal. You are such a faithful mom.
Carol <cnovicky@charter.net>
- Monday, March 8, 2004 10:01 PM CST

Hey Lisa, looking all this 2 Max got is so exciting!!!! He is a true blessing and his progress wonders all of us. Keep working hard Max I believe in you!
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Sunday, March 7, 2004 8:33 PM CST

Thinking of your family.

- Thursday, March 4, 2004 5:46 PM CST

I am the Lord, the God of EVERY PERSON on the earth.
NOTHING is impossible for me. Jer. 32:27

My God will use his wonderful riches in Christ Jesus to give you everything you need. Phil. 4:19

Think only about the things in heaven, not the things on earth. Your old sinful self has died, and your new life is kept with Christ in God. Col. 3:2-3

Lord, even when I have trouble all around me, you will keep me alive.
When my enemies are angry, you will reach down and save me by your power. Psalm 138:7

And after you suffer for a SHORT time, God, who gives all grace, will make everything right. He will make you strong and support you and keep you from falling. He called you to share in his glory, a glory that will continue FOREVER.
1 Peter 5:10
pz
- Tuesday, March 2, 2004 10:54 PM CST

So cool - Max is dangerously close to controlling his own switch! It is going to be very exciting to see what that means and how much more it opens up in life for Max beyond his toys. You all hang in there! Love to read the updates, Lisa, so keep it up, and say hello to Jim, Spence, and Max, too! Love, Patti.
Patti <barthpl2002@yahoo.com>
HL, MN - Tuesday, March 2, 2004 3:14 PM CST

Hey Lisa and Max
Just passing by to wish both of you more little miracles every day. The cheeto one is awsome! :-)
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Monday, March 1, 2004 8:57 PM CST

Just stopped in to visit Max's website...What a handsome guy he is...Thank you Lisa for sharing Max with us and for being such an awesome friend...Your an awesome mom, don't ever forget that!!! Max is lucky to have such a loving family who takes such wonderful care of him...Love, hugs, and God Bless...Peggy
Peggy Hostetler <AngelinDiskyes@aol.com>
Simi Valley, Ca USA - Sunday, February 29, 2004 3:06 AM CST

Lisa, You are a most beautiful person. I never get tired of reading your updates and seeing the photos. Always be open to listening to what His answers are and not necessarily to what answers we are expecting. May God continue to bless you, Jim, Spencer and Max. I love you all.
Grandma Karen
- Saturday, February 28, 2004 7:12 AM CST

Beautiful Max--Beautiful Lisa--Beautiful Love!
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Wednesday, February 25, 2004 6:20 PM CST

Lisa...the love you have for Max, and Max has for you, shows up so clearly in this picture. You are such an amazing mom!

- Tuesday, February 24, 2004 6:39 PM CST

Hey Max! I'm so glad reading the improvement you have made! You know I'm always sending positive thought your way and today a double chocolate hug!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Sunday, February 22, 2004 9:32 PM CST

About God's Answers to our prayers:

Go back and report to John what you hear and see: "The blind receive sight, the lame walk...and the good news is preached to the poor".

This was Jesus' answer to John's agonized query from the dungeon of doubt: "Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?"

We don't know how John received Jesus' message but we can imagine. I like to think of a slight smile coming over his lips as he heard what his Master said. For now he understood. It wasn't that Jesus was silent; it was that John had been listening for the wrong answer. John had been listening for an answer to his earthly problems, while Jesus was busy resolving his heavenly ones.

That's worth remembering the next time you hear the silence of God. (Max Lucado - the Applaus of Heaven)

Ask and God will give to you. Search, and you will find. Knock, and the door will open for you. Yes, everyone who asks will receive. Everyone who searches will find. And everyone who knocks will have the door opened.
Matthew 7:7-8

pz
- Sunday, February 22, 2004 12:52 AM CST

Hi Sweetie !

Just stopped by to say Hi and let you
know that you are in the
Quilts Of Love Angels
thoughts and prayers

Sending you lots of Angel (((Hugs)))

Blessings
Angel Chris
Chris <wardsweb@earthlink.net>
Los Angeles, CA USA - Saturday, February 21, 2004 8:22 PM CST

Do you think if we all looked at Jesus the way that little boy is looking at Him on the front of this site... our lives wouldn't be filled with so many concerns? Faith like a child. I am certain, even without knowing Max, the Spirit has filled him with this kind of beautiful faith.

- Wednesday, February 18, 2004 11:14 PM CST

lisa the snow globe is awesome.it was great talking to you last night.all my love and prayers
c.
- Wednesday, February 18, 2004 8:31 PM CST

Maxwell,

Did you feel the love today when I held you? You are soooo beautiful and when your eyes are closed so I can't see your big blues, I see those feather duster eyelashes just brushing you cheek. It was a good day for me to see and touch you!

Love,
Your Gramma Congo
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Tuesday, February 17, 2004 7:05 PM CST

My goodness, it has been ages. My computor would not let me on the internet or web site..It kept telling me ...Cannot find server. Well, everything is setting just where it always was so I give up. Today there it was!! So much reading since last visit. Love the new picture. Read of so may "New Endeavors by Maxwell"...gives the heart a little hiccup! Bob has one week left on his radiation treatments following spread of prostate CA. Doing real well. You are so right about health care and it's costs. What is wrong with America? Bettcha He could tell us, if we'd listen, and I don't think He is republican or democrat! Happy for your Mom, Lisa. How could anyone named Jim be anything but wonderful!! My second time around could be a blueprint for success...Bob's are good too! Keep up your wonderful spirit and take everything to God in prayer. He lifts the heart.
Aunt Bev 7 Unvle Bob <bandbkulseth@aol.com>
Mankato, - Monday, February 16, 2004 11:04 AM CST

Lisa,

The tears run down my cheeks as I sit at the computer and feel your pain at the word "dependent". I see your heart and feel it's soreness. Now look at the word dependent in the light of the Mother's love you have for and give to Maxwell and you will know he will always be your dependent. I have seen your love for him from his birth and I know it continues every minute of every day and that will never change. Let that thought rest on and ease your wounded heart.

Remember always I love you!

Joanne
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Sunday, February 15, 2004 11:58 AM CST

Happy Valentine's Day to my dear Maxwell !!~

I'm sending you lots of hugs and lipstick kisses !!

I love you!

Gramma Congo
, <gramma congo@aol.com>
- Saturday, February 14, 2004 9:07 AM CST

Happy Valentines Day, From Everyone at Post Pals

viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Saturday, February 14, 2004 1:07 AM CST

About Jesus, Our Hope........

Perhaps the heaviest burden we try to carry is the burden of mistakes and failures. What do you do with your failures?

Even if you've falled, even if you've failed, even if everyone else has rejected you, Christ will not turn away from you. He came first and foremost to those who have no hope. He goes to those no one else would go to and says, "I'll give you eternity."

Only you can surrender your concerns to the Father. No one else can take those away and give them to God. Only you can cast all your anxieties on the one who cares for you. What better way to start the day than by laying your cares at his feet?

Walking with the Savior - Max Lucado

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. In God's great mercy he has caused us to be born again into a living hope, because Jesus Christ rose from the dead.
1 Peter 1:3

Now I am right with God, not because I followed the law, but because I believed in Christ. God uses my faith to make me right with him. I want to know Christ and the power that raised him from the dead.... Then I have hope that I myself will be raised from the dead.
Phillippians 3:9-11

These two things cannot change...God cannot lie when he makes a promise, and he cannot lie when he makes an oath. These things encourage us who came to God for safety. They give me strength to hold on to the hope we have been given. We have hope as an anchor for the soul, sure and strong. Hebrews 6:18-19

About feeling Overwhelmed by Problems.........

God's blessings are dispensed according to the riches of his grace, not according to the depth of our faith. "If we are not faithful, he will still be faithful, because he cannot be false to himself" (2 Tim. 2:13).

Why is that important to know? So you won't get cynical. Look around you. Aren't there more mouths than bread? Aren't there more wounds than physicians? Aren't there more who need the truth than those who tell it?

So what do we do? Throw up our hands and walk away? Tell the world we can't help them?

No, we don't give up. We look up. We trust. We believe. And our optimism is not hollow. Christ has proven worthy. He has shown that he never fails. That's what makes God, God.

A Gentle Thunder - Max Lucado

Lord, answer me because your love is so good. Because of your great kindness, turn to me. Do not hide from me, your servant. I am in trouble. Hurry to help me! Come near and save me; rescue me from my enemies. Psalm 69:16-18

I love the Lord, because he listens to my prayers for help. He paid attention to me, so I will call to him for help as long as I live. Psalm 116:1-2

I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you.
I will give you hope and a good future.
Then you will call my name.
You will come to me and pray to me.
I will listen to you.
You will search for me.
When you search for me with all your heart,
you will find me! Jeremiah 29:11-13
pz
- Wednesday, February 11, 2004 0:32 AM CST

Thank you to PZ for her words of inspiration and encouragement...so many times I come to read about Max and his family and the words of PZ are so fitting for my own life.
I wonder if you know, Lisa, how many lives you have touched by keeping this journal. Your words and the words of so many that write here are an inspiration. Thank you for opening up your heart to us.

- Tuesday, February 10, 2004 7:58 PM CST

What great updates! It is amazing to hear how many things Max is doing new or different. Keep the information coming, Lisa! It keeps the prayer chain going for all of us who know and love your family. I'm excited to hear how his evaluation goes, and how much more kicking he does for visits.
Patti <barthpl2002@yahoo.com>
Howard Lake, MN - Tuesday, February 10, 2004 2:16 PM CST

Faith:

Faith is the belief that God is real and that God is good...It is a choice to believe that the one who made it all, hasn't left it all, and that he still sends light into the shadows and responds to gestures of faith....

Faith is the belief that God will do what is right.

God says that the more hopeless your circumstances, the more likely your salvation. The greater your cares, the more genuine your prayers. The darker the room, the greater the need for light.

God's help is near and ALWAYS available, but it is only given to those who seek it.

(Max Lucado - He Still Moves Stones)

AND AFTER YOU SUFFER FOR A SHORT TIME, GOD WHO GIVES ALL GRACE, WILL MAKE EVERYTHING RIGHT. HE WILL MAKE YOU STRONG AND SUPPORT YOU AND KEEP YOU FROM FALLING. HE CALLED YOU TO SHARE IN HIS GLORY IN CHRIST, A GLORY THAT WILL CONTINUE FOREVER. 1 PETER 5:10

pz
- Monday, February 9, 2004 8:00 PM CST

Lisa, thanks for sharing,that was wonderful.
c.
- Monday, February 9, 2004 6:31 AM CST

Lisa...you are such an incredible person!

, - Sunday, February 8, 2004 6:06 PM CST

Lisa,
The update was worth whatever time and trouble it took to get it in. I'm ready to see the smile, and feel the hug!!
Love to you all,
Joanne
Joanne <gramma congo@aol.com>
- Saturday, February 7, 2004 4:15 PM CST

Hi Max!!! Just checking in on you to see how you are doing and it sounds like you're doing GREAT!!!! Keep up the good work! Thanks for always updating Lisa!! Take care...
The O'Brien's <Oducks@msn.com>
Blaine, MN - Saturday, February 7, 2004 1:51 PM CST

Max looks wonderful, and the update on him is good news, as everything no matter how big or small is a miracle and will bring another miracle...God bless you all, my prayers are always with you...Hugszzz,Peggy gramma to Seth P.
Peggy Hostetler <AngelinDiskyes@aol.com>
Simi Valley, Ca USA - Thursday, February 5, 2004 1:47 AM CST

Maxwell
I'm thinking about you and I love you!!
Gramma
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Sunday, February 1, 2004 4:18 PM CST

Hello Lisa, Jim Spencer and Max!
I'm so happy to read the progress Max is making! Little bu little, baby steps.... those are the most amazing ones :-)
Sending lots of light and positive thoughts your way

Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Saturday, January 31, 2004 8:14 PM CST

I wish Max and his family lots of love and lots of prayers! I know God is listening and will heal Seth and Max! God Bless!
Marisa (Seth P's Cousin) <RisaNGnR@aol.com>
Simi Valley, CA USA - Saturday, January 31, 2004 4:29 AM CST

What a great weekend it sounds like you've had! I'll bet you continue seeing all the improvements - he's in such a good place! You all keep warm, too. Take care. Love, Patti
Patti Barth <barthpl2002@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, January 27, 2004 2:49 PM CST

Hello Max and Lisa!
Just a short note to let you know I'm thinking about you guys, and sending lots of positive thoughts your way
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Saturday, January 24, 2004 9:18 PM CST

I LOVE the new pictures!!!! WOW, now that's a chair!!! Thanks for checking in on us! Yes, I have been working alot but never too much to check in on you guys! Stay Warm!!
Ann O'Brien <Oducks@msn.com>
Blaine, MN - Monday, January 19, 2004 6:56 PM CST

Good Morning Red,
I love the new chair.
looks very comfey.Its a great color
for you.I bet Spencer loves it also.
I love the new pictures.Have a nice
week.maybe see you this week-end
lots of Love
xoxoxo
- Monday, January 19, 2004 6:39 AM CST

Just passing by to wish you rainbows for all the week!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Saturday, January 17, 2004 9:45 PM CST

Lisa and Family,
The therapist note you posted was great!!!! It got me a little teary eyed hearing her speak about "the real Max" It makes you feel so good that someone can "hear" him, and understand that he has some thoughts on what is going on in around him.
Thanks for keeping up on the journal, I check it every week.

Tammy Juntilla
St. Louis Park, MN - Wednesday, January 14, 2004 2:45 PM CST

Jim, Lisa, Spencer, and Max, Hello from México. reading your journal is like joining little miracles each day and I just love it. A great big hug for each and everyone of you and the best in this new year to begin
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Monday, January 12, 2004 7:22 PM CST

Jim, Lisa, Spencer, and Max, Hi to all of you from Arizona. We are getting Grandpa settled into some sort of routine--but we all know how spontaneous he is,so it's not an easy task. Anyway, the weather is nice and I think he will be happy to be here once he feels a little more comfortable. Belated birthday greetings to Spencer. I'll have to see you when I get back. Until then, stay warm. I love you all.
Grandma Karen <karengirl67@aol.com>
- Thursday, January 8, 2004 9:53 AM CST

HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY SPENSER!!!!! Wow, 9 years old!!! You're catching up to me!!!
Ann O'Brien
Blaine, MN - Wednesday, January 7, 2004 8:25 AM CST

Christmas, come and gone. I get slower each year. What wonderful updates re Maxwell. So much response and personality coming through. Hold onto those blessings. You are right about the good and bad days. Imagine if someone were to keep a journal on US!The care is remarkable at Sugar Lake...patient and family. The calendar idea was such a loving gift! Hello to Ralph-tough getting old, isn't it?!! Glad you are better. Wishing you a Happy 2004 and God's CONTINUED BLESSINGS to you all. What Gosewisch nose?!!
Aunt Bev & Uncle Bob <bandbkulseth@aol.com>
Mankato, - Sunday, January 4, 2004 7:25 PM CST

Good Morning Maxie!
I felt sad that you couldn't be with all of us on Christmas day, but I'm glad you are feeling better now. The Christmas party at your Sugar Lake home was so nice and how I love the calendar you and all of your caregivers made for us!!! That was alot of work for everyone, but worth every minute of it to this Gramma.

I'll bet it was a good day with Mom and Dad and Spence when Santa came with presents! Smiles all around.

I have to go to the grocery store so will say goodbye for now and never, ever forget I love you!!!
Gramma Congo
Joanne <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Tuesday, December 30, 2003 9:29 AM CST

Merry Christmas you guys, hoping 2004 brings much love and happiness and health!
Chris ~ Gooch's Site ~
- Wednesday, December 24, 2003 10:42 PM CST
MERRY CHRISTMAS RED AND FAMILY,
Looking forward to seeing all of you for
xmas at L.J's.
God Bless you all
xoxoxoxo
- Wednesday, December 24, 2003 1:29 PM CST

Jean - Quilts of Love <quiltsoflove@quiltsoflove.com>
- Wednesday, December 24, 2003 1:00 PM CST
Hi there. My hubby is a Vikings fan as well. :)
I am glad things are going so well. I hope Ralph feels better soon.
I wanted to wish this family THE BEST HOLIDAY EVER!!!!
Hugs and Hope, Love and Prayers to you from us. QOL
Cheryl <carpathienblue@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, December 24, 2003 10:08 AM CST
Hey Lisa! Just wanted to stop by and see how things were going. It's so wonderful to hear about Max's progress. It's also nice to hear joy and hope in your writing (voice). However, forgetting Jim's b-day !!!!! LOL Have a wonderful Christmas holiday. Extra holiday thoughts and prayers are on their way !
Julie Opheim <bohunkbbq@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, December 23, 2003 6:50 AM CST

Love everyone at Post Pals
Cori <info@postpals.co.uk>
- Tuesday, December 23, 2003 3:31 AM CST
Just checking in on all of you and wishing you a very MERRY CHRISTMAS,and HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Jim!!!
Ann O'Brien and Ryan too!!!!
Blaine, MN - Monday, December 22, 2003 8:10 PM CST
Stoppin by to wish you guys a very Merry Christmas!
Heather Grell <hiyah75@yahoo.com>
Brainerd, MN - Monday, December 22, 2003 10:08 AM CST
Hi Lisa and Max!

Thank you so much for checking in on Israel and signing his guestbook. I'm so sorry that it has taken me so long to respond. Things get a little busy here, just like they do for everyone else I'm sure. I'm checking into getting a PCA for Israel starting sometime in January. I have a friend that is a PCA and she said she is sure Israel would qualify. I always thought you had to be medically dependent to qualify (lots of meds or cares). Israel is off all of his medication but has so many other brain issues and cannot be left alone. He is now so mobile that this is very challenging (not that I am complaining about him being mobile:))!! I'm really excited about possibly getting a PCA and I think it would be great for Israel (and a great help to me and Israel's sister, Braunti).

We've been busy with all of the Christmas "stuff", except doing my cards. They probably won't be sent off until the new year.

Things sound great with Max. I know how encouraging the little things are, things that we all tend to take for granted (the ability to have eye contact, or to watch someone doing something). That is really cool!! If Israel can carry something in his hand for more than five yards without "forgetting" about it and dropping it, that is a big thing!! It used to be only a couple of steps before he would "forget". My heart breaks for your family and all that seems to be "missing" to make life more complete (that is how I feel anyway) but you are very faithful to the hope that can only be found in Jesus. We need to trust that we are on the path that He has for us. You all have done such and awesome job on your journey!!!!!

Have a beautiful Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

Love,

Lonna and Israel:www.caringbridge.org/mn/israelcobb
Lonna Cobb <jlcobb22@hotmail.com>
Brooklyn Center, MN USA - Saturday, December 20, 2003 6:20 PM CST
Hey Max,
It's so good to hear the progress you are doing! You know I wish you and yours only the best always. Keep that amazing shines of hope showing!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Monday, December 15, 2003 9:54 PM CST
HI Max
Uncle Scott just fixed my computer so I can write to you again--I've been trying to send you a love message for a long time and the computer wouldn't let me--so here it is I LOVE YOU!!!

See you next Sunday at Sugar Lake!

Gramma Congo <grammacongo@aol.com>
- Sunday, December 14, 2003 1:59 PM CST
Dearest Maxwell

I gently wrap warm thoughts of you
in my christmas prayers
For Heaven to smile on you
For Angels to watch over you
and the love of Jesus to fill your heart
Have A Merry Christmas
God Bless You And Your Family This Holiday
Chris Ullrich - Grand daughter dx with AML M5 <c_ullrich@msn.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/isabellaledesma>
Hemingford, Ne USA - Saturday, December 13, 2003 8:36 AM CST
Hello All,
I'm so glad to hear that Max is doing so well!! He sure is getting BIG!!! Tell Spencer that we hope he feels all better very soon!
Ann O'Brien
Blaine, MN - Friday, December 12, 2003 4:40 PM CST
Lisa: Thanks for keeping the website for all of us. It is so good to be able to know how things are going. Glad you had a good Thanksgiving. We continue to pray for Max and you all as you continue this journey.
Swedbergs <jmswedberg@earthlink.net>
Howard Lake, MN USA - Thursday, December 11, 2003 4:35 AM CST
Good Morning Red,
I just love the new pictures.
sorry I missed seeing you the other day.
you should see the snow coming down this morning
it looks like winter.
I love you and miss you.
C.
- Tuesday, December 9, 2003 6:13 AM CST

I am starting my rounds early as I have many QOL children to visit, I just wanted to make sure you know we are all thinking of you and wishing you the best Christmas ever.
Love Angel Toto <pat_totoofoz@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, December 7, 2003 5:55 PM CST
Hello to the whole family! I haven't written for ages and wanted to let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers often. We see little boys and say "That looks like Max," but their hair is never as red! Did anyone ever really figure out where that came from? I know Jim's beard has some red, but that doesn't explain Max's hair!!???? You have started your holiday season with Max's pictures, I see.....keep it going! Enjoy the season and your time together as a family. Love always, Patti.
Patti Barth <patti_barth@archway.com>
Howard Lake, MN - Friday, December 5, 2003 1:32 PM CST
Hey Max, Lisa, Spencer and Jim, I hope you had a wonderful thanksgiving!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Friday, November 28, 2003 10:53 PM CST
Happy Turkey Day, Max!!

Chris <Pray4Michael@aol.com>
Toledo, OH - Thursday, November 27, 2003 12:08 AM CST
I wanted to wish you a Wonderful Thanksgiving.
I hope Max feels better soon. And that he enjoys the early Christmas decorations.
Hugs and Hope, Love and Prayers to you from us.
Cheryl <carpathienblue@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, November 27, 2003 0:01 AM CST
hello Lisa, Spencer, Jim and Max
Just passing by to wish you a day filld with love. You guys are awsome!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Tuesday, November 25, 2003 9:29 PM CST
Hey Lisa, Jim, Spencer and Max... just wanted to tell you I was thinking of you as this Turkey day approaches. Hope you all stay warm and cozy as this winter begins!

*BIG HUG*
Julie Opheim <bohunkbbq@hotmail.com>
Minnetonka, - Tuesday, November 25, 2003 7:32 AM CST
Hello Lisa, Spencer, Jim and Max,
Just a little note to let you all know I'm thinking about you and sending lost of healing light rays your way!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Sunday, November 16, 2003 8:57 PM CST
Hello Lisa, It was sad to read your last post. I know what you are going through and it is not easy. My grandson, Alexander, was doing great until two months ago. He was smiling and laughing all of the time and was about to sit up on his own. Now he is agitated constantly. The therapists and doctors told his parents that they have seen this before and it is probably a phase that they go through in getting better. Yesterday they found that he probably has an infection that may be causing his irritability. Maybe Max is going through one of those phases the professionals were telling my daughter and her husband about. I will send good thoughts your way and know that I am thinking of you.

Edna
Edna
- Saturday, November 15, 2003 4:51 PM CST
What a great picture.....Maxwell just sitting there with Dad sharing some space and perhaps a thought or two. And Dad....what a hottie you are!!! Can't get over how much Maxwell has grown! It is amazing to hear of his responses to family attention. We are all anxious for these moments. Gotta get up to see Grampa J & Gramma K's house remodeling. Belated Happy B-Day to Joanne. Somewhere around the 25th of Oct. I think....Never toooo late! Have a Happy Thanksgiving. We are thankful for even the little blessings in our lives. Hugs!!!!
Aunt Bev & Uncle Bob <bandbkulseth@aol.com>
Mankato, - Thursday, November 13, 2003 10:43 PM CST
STAYING POWER........

True power needs to last. Many distance runners start with a burst of energy but fade on the stretch. The best athletes sometimes lose to a steadier team which takes better conditioning into the final quarter or overtime period. We are describing staying power. Yes, God provides a power source unlimited in the resurrection of His Son. He also supplies Word power, the Gospel to unlock that power source. And He intends for us to use His resources to keep going over the long haul, to have staying power. We will experience discouragement and frustration after our initial "going". We will experience God's testing in our personal lives as well as in our witnessing efforts. But God says also to us, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." We look to the weak and helpless Son of God, nailed to a cross for us, and then experience His resurrection power flowing from the empty tomb to us in our weakness.

from Stephen J. Carter, My Daily Devotion
p
- Wednesday, November 12, 2003 10:57 PM CST
Happy Halloween Red....
You make an awesome Batman =)
you are looking so awesome.
love the new pictures,looked like you were
having a good time.Spencer have fun trick or treating
tonight.
My love and Prayers are always with you all.
C.
- Friday, October 31, 2003 6:55 AM CST
Jesus said, "Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust in me". John l4:1

pz
- Wednesday, October 29, 2003 3:43 PM CST
Hey Jimmy Lisa and family. Long time no talk.
Or no see.Bet you don't know who this is.
You guys must be some pretty tough cookies
to withstand some heavy duty life challenges.
Of course if you can party till dawn with the
Lukachs then you can do anything. Keep up the
good work. Hope to see you somewhere.
Laura Lukach <Lauralukach@earthlink.net>
Buffalo, MN United States of America - Tuesday, October 28, 2003 7:20 PM CST
"To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides."
- David Viscott

And the sun is reaching you on every side!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Monday, October 27, 2003 7:24 PM CST
Just wanting to catch up. Don't get on computor much anymore. Lost my sound. Should take it in for a go over. Love to hear about Maxwell and his family. He sure has GROWN...and I am so happy to hear that Gramma can see a different Maxwell, with more response in his treatment. Good of you Lisa to think of Jimmy in the leaf raking. God gave you all such big HEARTS!! Prayers still in the making for Maxwell and all of you.
Aunt Bev & Uncle Bob <bandbkulseth@aol.com>
Mankato, - Sunday, October 26, 2003 12:08 AM CST
Lisa, Jim and Family: Just got a chance to check in on Max. I do love the picture of him on horseback. Thank you for your prayers for our family. We are continuing to make progress. We continue our prayers for you all. Swedbergs
Joel and Marylou Swedberg
Howard Lake, MN USA - Friday, October 24, 2003 10:31 AM CDT

Just wanted to drop over and wish you a FUN halloween..Hugs
Carolyn <carolynj52@ilovejesus.net>
Oklahoma United States - Monday, October 20, 2003 0:59 AM CDT

I wanted to say hi! He looks great on that horse! A natural. Not everyone can look so handsome in a cowboy hat!
Enjoy raking the leaves. When you are done, want to come here? lol
Love and Hugs, Hope and Prayers to you from us!
Cheryl <carpathienblue@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, October 18, 2003 10:35 PM CDT
Sending my thoughts and prayers to you and your family. All of you are so brave and have been through alot. www.caringbridge.org/va/maxie/
Christy <IMAQT430@aol.com>
Amelia, VA USA - Saturday, October 18, 2003 0:24 AM CDT
Sending lots of positive thoughts for you and yours!
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Thursday, October 16, 2003 10:36 PM CDT
Wow Max...You sure do look handsome on that wonderful gentle horse.
I stopped by to check up on you and to wish you a Happy Halloween.

Hugs,
Island Princess
Island Princess <islandprincess@quiltsoflove.com>
- Thursday, October 16, 2003 1:07 PM CDT
Just stopped by your site to check on what's happening and say hello. I spot read a few entries from the first to the last. This is an ENCYCLOPEDIA of thoughts and memories - what a book it makes. And what a great group of family and friends are represented here, keeping us all focused on what's important. Love, UNC
Howard Goltz <hfgoltz@leoadaly.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Sunday, October 12, 2003 4:45 PM CDT
Just stopped by your site to check on what's happening and say hello. I spot read a few entries from the first to the last. This is an ENCYCLOPEDIA of thoughts and memories - what a book it makes. And what a great group of family and friends are represented here, keeping us all focused on what's important. Love, UNC
Howard Goltz <hfgoltz@leoadaly.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Sunday, October 12, 2003 4:45 PM CDT
Hey Max! You and your family are just awsome! I just loved the part when your mommy wrote you are smiling. Alll my positive wishes are going towaarsd you and your family and a basket full of rainbows as well!
Chocolate hugs
Martha <hege_angel@yahoo.com.mx>
- Sunday, October 12, 2003 0:28 AM CDT
Doggone computer wouldn't let me into the guestbook all week. I was so anxious to share with everyone who reads here, that I was able to watch Maxwell at do his therapeutic riding at Freedom Farm last Tuesday. What a difference from the time I observed 2 years ago!! 2 years ago there were at least 4 sidewalkers helping him to stay on Toby in the reclining position. Now there was Lisa and Susie helping him and he was maintaining an upright position going round and round looking very alert and not folding up. It was hard to believe and wonderful to see!! I suppose Susie could explain to all of us how the movement of the horse helps our Maxwell. We are so fortunate that a place like Freedom Farm exists nearby and that Maxwell derives such good benefit from it (along with his other therapies and daily care given the last 3 years). Hurray for you Maxwell!!!
Gramma Congo
- Saturday, October 11, 2003 9:22 AM CDT
Doggone computer wouldn't let me into the guestbook all week. I was so anxious to share with everyone who reads here, that I was able to watch Maxwell at do his therapeutic riding at Freedom Farm last Tuesday. What a difference from the time I observed 2 years ago!! 2 years ago there were at least 4 sidewalkers helping him to stay on Toby in the reclining position. Now there was Lisa and Susie helping him and he was maintaining an upright position going round and round looking very alert and not folding up. It was hard to believe and wonderful to see!! I suppose Susie could explain to all of us how the movement of the horse helps our Maxwell. We are so fortunate that a place like Freedom Farm exists nearby and that Maxwell derives such good benefit from it (along with his other therapies and daily care given the last 3 years). Hurray for you Maxwell!!!
Gramma Congo
- Saturday, October 11, 2003 9:22 AM CDT
Jim, Lisa, Spencer, and Maxwell, Lisa, you are truly an amazing woman. It is OK to cry. Tears are God's liquid grace. It's His way of cleaning us and relieving pressure so that we can go on one day at a time, one moment at a time. I read something recently that really struck me. I can't quite remember how it went but something like this. "Each night before you go to bed give all your worries and cares to God. Then you can go to sleep in peace. God is always awake anyway." Take care. I love you all..
Grandma Karen
- Saturday, October 11, 2003 7:04 AM CDT
Lisa,

If you didn't have meltdowns periodically, I think we'd all worry about you. You'd be holding it all in and that's not good for you, which in turn wouldn't be good for Max (OR Spencer and Jim !!!)

I can't say that I know how you feel, cuz' in truth, I don't. I don't have any kids, but I can imagine it's heart wrenching.

The anniversary of Max's accident was my dad's last b-day. So it's a doubly sad day for me.

Lisa, your strength, and courage is admirable. It always has been. As long as I've known you, it's been there. The fact that your family has stayed together and stayed strong is an indication of that. I don't know who in your guestbook mentioned that accidents like Max's can sometimes rip families apart... and they are right... but yours is together, strong and the love and committment is so visible. That's the test of your... I don't know what you call it... but you got it! All of you!

I've never even met all those Gosewisch's... but from what I've read in your journal entries and their guestbook entries... they are a pretty special family to be part of. What a support system you have!

*BIG HUG*....and you are right... take it one day at a time...

Lean on that support system when you need them... call old friends when you need them... stay focused, stay strong... you have two extremely special kids and apparently a pretty extraordinary husband... anyway you look at it.... those are huge things to be thankful for.

*BIG HUG*
Julie Opheim <bohunkbbq@hotmail.com>
Minnetonka, - Friday, October 10, 2003 9:33 AM CDT

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